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' Arcy of the Guards 



LOUIS EVAN SHIPMAN 




SAMUEL FRENCH, 28-30 West 38th St., New York 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS 



B fMa^ In jfour Bct& 



BY 

LOUIS EVAN SHIPMAN 



COPYKIGUT, 1915, BY HBr.EN TVLER 



ALL RIGHTS RESERl^ED 



CAUTION. All persons are hereby warned that " D'ARGY 
OF THE UUARDS ** , beinig lully protected under the copy- 
right lawsof (he United States, is subject to royalty, and any 
one prese<itin4 the play without the consent of the owner 
or her authorized agents will be liable io the penalties by 
law provided. Application for the amateur actinti rights 
must be made to SAMUEL FRENCH. 28-30 WEST 38th 
St., New York. Application for the professional actintt 
rights must be made to the American Play Company, Inc.. 
'^:^ MVst 42nd St., New York. 



New York London 

SAMQEL FRENCH j SAMUEL FRENCH, Ltd., 
PUBMSHER I 26 Southampton Street 

28-80 WEST 38th Street STRAND 






t' 



©C1.D 39672 



D^ARCY OF THE GUARDS 






CAST. 



Major John D'Akcy Henry Miller 

Colonel Sir Edward Jennison. . . .Arthur Elliott 

Major Dalrymple George G. Pearce 

Captain Dacier Meriam Bruce 

Captain Farquhar Robert Earring 

Captain Kelter .H. L. Forbes 

Captain Gregory Walter Allen 

Sergeant Tripp James A. Leahy 

Captain Millhausen John Gooper 

Captain Eaab George G Ornish 

CaptaixV Henry Town send. . . .Gharles F, Gotthold 

Samuel Davis Arthur Elliott 

Sambo Otis Turner 

Mrs. Townsend Janet Barrington 

Pamela Townsend Florence Rochwell 

Cynthia Deane Louise Wahelee 

(NOTE: By using the following doubles, the 
])iece can be played by twelve (12) people.) 

Captain Krlt¥.^. .Doubles with Captain Henry 

Townsend 
Colonkl Sir Edward Jennison. .. .Pou&?e5 with 

. . Samuel Davis 

( aptain Dacier Doubles ivith Captain Eaab 

Captain Farquhar lloubles with Captain 

Millhausen 
3 



IVARcy OF TJIK Gr.\KM)S. 

SYNOPSIS. 

Ac'i I. Garden at the Townsend House. 

Act II. Library at the Totvnsend House. 

Act III. Same as Act II. 

x\cT lY. Billiard room at the Townsend House. 



"? 



D'Arcy of the Guards 



ACT I. 



Scene :—Garde?is of the Townsend House, Phila. 
'77-'?8. At R. larqe colonml house ohliqued up 
and down stage from tormentor R. to R. 3. 
Hedgiroin with c. arch, vine covered from u. 
corner of house across to L. 3, then obliqued down 
to L. 1. Flower bed c, tree, bench and table L. c. 
opposite L. 2. 

Lights at rise: Entire stage amber. Full up. 
Tivo red lamps r. and L. u. are reflected on bach 
drop. 
A t rii^e drum and fife off i.. " Yankee Doodle." 

r)lS(X)VERED: — Sambo enters from house carrying 
iray coniaining chocolate pot, three cups and 
saucers, small plate of cake and cake knife. 
Crosses to table L., placing tray on table. 
Cynthia up c. — looking off l. and coming down 
c. 

Cynthia. Oh, let me help you, Sambo. 

Sambo, (r. c.) Now, Miss Cynthia, you'd jus' 
better let dis ole nigger look arter dese sort o' tings 
hisself . You knows dat I is very pertickler 'bout sich 
important matters. 

Mrs. Townsend. (l. of table l. c.) Let him fix 
them, Cynthia. 

Sambo. {Crosses to back of table L.) Besides, 
5 



6 D'ARCY OF THE GUAPtDS. 

who knows dis may be de las' mornin' dat we'll all 
be togedder in de old garden. 

Cynthia and Mrs. Towns, (c. and l. c.) What 
do you mean ? 

Sambo. (Behind table) De British am shurely 
comin' today. Why last night down in de town, de 
streets were jes' filled with wagon loads and wag'n 
loads oh people jes' scurryin' fur der lives. I wanted 
Miss Pamela to let me hitch up but she wouldn't even 
listen. 

Mrs. Towns, (l. c.) Of course not. 

Sambo. (^Crossing to house) Ob course not. Ob 
course not. Miss Pamela a very contrary-wise young 
lady. Reckon she wouldn't stay here at all if she 
thought there wasn't any danger. 

Cynthia, (c.) N^onsense, Sambo, there isn't the 
slightest danger. 

Hakry. (From r. u. e., speaks outside) Hello, 
there ! (Clanh of sword) 

Cynthia. {Going up c.) What was that? Did 
you hear anything, Sambo? 

Sambo. (Crosses r.) I thought T heard some- 
thing tinklin'. 

(Harry enters r. u. e. Meets Cynthia up c.) 

Cynthia. Why, it's Harry. 

(PIarry embraces Cynthia) 

Haiiry. Sweetheart! (Goes dow7i l. quickly to 
his mother) Mother! (Embraces her. Sambo 
coughs several times to attract notice. PIarry turns 
a,nd sees him. Comes c, grasps his hand, shaking it 
cordially) Why, it's Sambo I (r. c.) 

Sambo. If it ain't Marsa Harry I 

PIarry. Of course it is. Who did you think it 
was? (Crosses to l. Half way then to Mother on 
''British soldiers") 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 7 

Cynthia, (r.) He thought it was a whole regi- 
ment of British soldiers. Run in, Samho, and tell 
Pamela. 

Harry, (l.) Yes, tell her, Sambo. 

Sambo. (Crossing to house R.) Bless de Lord, 
I never expected to see my young Marsa alive agen 
(Exits into house R. Cynthia drops down r. on 
Sambo's exit) 

Mrs. Toy^NS. What are you doing here? 

Harry. It is the happiest chance. The General 
hurried me back this morning with important dis- 
patches for one of our agents here. I've been in the 
saddles since five this morning. 

Cynthia. (To r. c. eagerly) And the Army? 
You've not surrendered? It is safe? 

Harry. (Crosses to r. c.) Surrendered, dear? 
Never! They've driven us back inch by inch and 
beaten us, but they've paid dearly for their passage. 

Mrs. Towns, (l.) The way is clear for them 
then? 

Harry. The British will enter Philadelphia this 
morning. I wish you were all in some safer place. 
The town will be a perfect riot of soldiery with God 
knows what, to check them. 

Mrs. Towns. You must not worry for us, dear. 
Pamela will take care of us. 

Harry. Oh, I know, Pamela has the courage of 
a lion. But she is a woman after all. 

Mrs. Towns. Yes, that's true. (Goes up l.) 

Cynthia, (r. c.) And Mr. Davis will be near 
at hand. 

Harry, (g. impatiently) A pretty protector ! A 
Tory Quaker forever preaching his foolish nonresi st- 
ance. 

Cynthia, (r. c.) He has been very kind to us. 

Harry, (r. c. Still with impatience) Oh, yes, 
I know, but his kindness will, hardly impress the 
sensibilities of a Hessian Yaeger, or British 
Grenadier. 



8 D'ARCY OF THE GUAIIDS. 

Mrs. Towns. {Crosses to l. c.) You must not 
be afraid for us, dear. What harm could come to us 
here in the heart of the city ? 

Harry, (c.) I can't help but fear for you, can 
I? All that is dearest to me in the world — mother, 
sister, sweetheart, shut up here in Philadelphia in 
the hands of the enemy. Oh, if Pamela had but 
listened to reason, (c.) And let me have moved 
you to some place of safety. 

(Mrs. Townsend turns up l.) 

( YNTHiA. (r. c. Crosses to Harry. Aside) 
You know, dear. Aunt Clarissa could not have stood 
any journey. 

Harry, (c. Fretfully) I know, 1 know, which 
frightens me all the more for lier safety here. Have 
you missed me, sweetheart? 

Cynthia. Missed you, Harry? Oh, how I have 
missed you ! 

Harry. (Aside to Cynthia) Did you get the 
packet I sent the early part of the week ? 

Cynthia. Yes. I have read it a hundred times. 
I keep it 

Harry. You keep it? 

Cynthia. Here, where I may feel it every minute 
of the day. {Drawing letter from her bodice) 

Harry, (c. putting his arm about her fondly and 
trying to tdss her. She turns from him. to R. c.) 
Cynthia ! 

(PAMii^LA enters from house. Sees Harry.) 

Pamela. Harry! {Coming to him quickly c.) 
Marry. {Hokling her in Iris arms and kissin.g 
lier fondly) Dearest Pamela. 

(Mrs. Townsend comes to table and fills the cups.) 
Pamela, (jj. c.) There is no ill news? 



D'AllCY OF THE GUAEDS. 9 

Harry, (c.) The British will occupy the town 
today. 

Pamela. Today ? 

Harry. They may be here at any minute. 

Pamela. And you? 

Harry. You must thank their tardiness for see- 
ing me. I couldn't have stopped had they been here. 

Mrs. Towns. {At table l. Has filled two cups of 
chocolate, holding them out to Harry. Gives Harry 
one — ojfers the other to Pamela. She hands it to 
Cynthia. Mrs. Townsend goes to table) Harry! 

Harry. (Going toiuard her l., taking cup, sits R. 
of iable. (Cynthia sits r.) Thank you, mother. I 
have a hard ride before me. The General sent me in 
with important dispatches for ^Ir. Peid. I expected 
to find the enemy already here. 

(Mrs. Townsend siis l. of the table — on tree seat.) 

Pamela. {Stands bach of his chair) Where are 
you? 

Harry, (l. c.) Headquarters at Chester. I 
don't know the General's plan, but I think once Sir 
William Howe and Lord Cornwallis have arrived in 
Philadelphia, they'll find some trouble leaving it. 
Dear Mother, I am so anxious for you and the girls. 

Mrs. Towns, (l.) Never fear, Harry. The 
l^ritish would not molest such a harmless old lady. 
Aunt Pamela and Cynthia will take good care of 
me. 

Cy>;thia. (c.) That we will, dear aunt 

Harry, (l. c.) If, as I think, the General's plan 
is to sit down and watch, I'll not be far away and 
will see you often. 

Pamela. You must risk it, Harry. 

(Cynthia crosses on " that we will" — goes up and 
looks off c, and R. Crosses back to L. puts cup on 
table and crosses back to R.) 



10 D'AKOY OF THK (lUAKDS. 

Harky. No one knows the country hereabouts as 
T do, Pamela. A liundred different paths will bring 
me, that they know nothing of. 

Mrs. Towns, (l.) There are dangers enough 
on every hand for my bo}^, without Iiis seeking new 
ones. 

(Cynthia conies down r. c.) 

Harry, (l., putting cup on table, fondly to liis 
mother) N^ever fear, dear mother. (Turns facing 
the girls) Pamela, neither you nor Cynthia must 
venture out alone. 

Pamela, (c.) Foolish boy, we'll take care of 
ourselves. The British are not ogres. They'll not 
eat us. 

Cy'NThja. (r. c. laughing) They had better not 
try. You should see Pamela, Harry, with the new 
pistols you gave her before you went away. Every 
night wben Sambo is locking up, she stalks beside 
him, a pistol in either hand as fierce as any grenadier. 
She will Join the army yet, if we don't watch her. 
Aunt. 

Pamela. Oh, if I were but a man, I'd — (Pamela 
goes up c.) 

Cyn'ttiia. Why let a little matter of sex deter 
you ? You shoot aiid ride as well as Harry now, and 
I've no doubt, would soon handle his sabre better. 

IIariiv. Y^ou're a sad tease, Cynthia. 

Pamela. (Who has gone up to the gate c. Coin- 
ing down R. c.) Oh, it's horrible to sit here, day in 
and day out with one's hands in one's lap doing noth- 
ing, nothing, nothing. 

H^iRRY. (Soothingly) There, there, you may 
be able to do something yet, Pamela. 

Pamela. I hope so. ("Bugle" Call l. in dis- 
dp tance) 

(They all listen intently. Harry, after a moment's 
pauses, speaks. Mrs. Townsend rises.) 



D'AKCY OF THE GUAKD8. 11 

HAiiPtY. (l. c. to Mother) Ah, they are coming 
t last. T must be on the move. 



(Al this moment Samuel Davis enters through gale 
at I.', c. R. He is a tall, distinguished-looking 
Quaker, well past middle life, his hair streaked 
with gray, coughs as he comes dotvn stage. 
Ha].'RY twiis qiiickhj as if to draw his sahre.) 

CvN'TiriA. (r. seeing the action) Oh, it's only 
Air. Davis, Harry. 

Harry. Why, so it is. (He laughs and shakes 
hands tvifh Mr. Davis cordially, as he comes down) 

Davis, (c.) Woiild'st thee draw thy weapon on 
thy oldest friend? (^To the ladies) Good evening 
friends, this is a family group T scarce expected to 
/iiid. 

Mrs. Towns, (l.) Our boy has surprised us all, 
Friend Davis. 

Davis. What is thee doing here, Harry? Does 
tliee bring Mr. Washington's terms of surrender? 

Harry. ( Who is l. with his mother, smiling) No, 
but General Washington {Accenting the General) 
is at any time willing to submit terms of surrender 
to my Lord Howe. 

Pamela. (r. c.) What is this, Harry? 
{Angrily) 

{Keadjf Drvu and Buolu.) 

Davis. {Who is v., while the ladies, Cvntiiia and 
Fa.m!':la, are on Itis r., looks al them, and then eagerly 
lo Harry, in amazement) Is that so, Harry? Ah, 
does thee know it to be so? 

Harry, (l. o.) .1 would stake my life upon it. 

Davis, (c. ivith great pleasure) This is great 
news thet; brings, and wliat are the terms? 

Harry. {Coolly ) I think the General would 
grant Sir W illinm If owe the same terms that Gen'l 
Gates gave to Burgoyne last month at Saratoga. 



12 D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

Davis, What does thee mean ? 

Haery. I mean that nothing but the complete 
capitulation of Sir William Howe and his army would 
satisf}^ General Washington. 

Pamela. (Laughing) Oh, Harry, what a hoax 
you are? 

Davis. {Angrily) Art thou mad, boy? 

Harry. On the contrary. It's only a question of 
time. You had better come over to us before it's too 
late. 

Davis. Never ! 

{Ready Drum and Bugle.) 

Harry. ( Going to him and giving him his hand ) 
Well, dear old friend, we won't quarrel at this late 
day over difference of opinion. 

Davis. Thou wilt live to accept mine. 

Harry. {Bravely) I trust not. {Second's pause) 
But there, there — you have been to good to me and 
mine for me ever to forget. 

Davis. Oh, ruhhish, boy, rubhish. 

(" Drum-Bugle." There is a roll of drums, flare 
of Migles in the distance. They all listen. 
Davis goes up to gate c. Continue bugles until 
after his exit.) 

Harry. I must be off, now. That sounds too 
near for comfort, ((roiw^ /o /it's Mother l.) Good- 
bye, mother dear. It will not be for long. {Em- 
braces her tenderly) 

Mrs. Towns, (l. bravely) God bless and keep 
you, my boy. 

Harry, {Crosses to Pamela. Going to Pamela^ 
^ kissing her) Goodbye, little sister, be careful and 

don't go much about the town. 

Pamela. Never fear for me, brother. 

Harry. {Crosses Pamela to Cynthia r. Tal> 



D^ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 13 

ing CvxTiiiA in his arms) Goodbye, goodbye, sweet- 
heart. (Kissing her) 

Cyktiila. Gooaoye. (Sinks on settee down e.) 
Hakky. (Going to Davis, who is standing L. of 
gale c, taking his hand impulsively) Goodbye, old 
friend — I know you will watch over them for me. 

(Pamela goes to Cynthia r.) 

Davis. I promise thee, lad, I promise thee. 

Harry. Goodbye all, goodbye. (He hurriedly 
exits had' of hedgerow r. Drum and fife effect sets 
up louder and louder until after his exit, then gradu- 
aVy dies away. Mrs. Townsend goes up to house, 
Pamela tries to soothe Cynthia down r., tvho is cry- 
ing. Cynthia and Pamela go to house. Bus. 
Cy^nthta exits into house) 

Davis. {Coming down c. Trying hard not to 
show his emotion) Drat the boy, I could stand it if 
he were fighting on the other side. 

Pamela. (Crosses with her mother r.) Now 
don't let us enter into a discussion of the divine right 
of kings. (She has taken her mother from the seat 
h., led her up on the steps of house R. As they are 
about to enter turns to Mr. Davis) You will sup 
with us, Mr. Davis? 

Davis, (c.) No, thank thee, dear, I have business 
to attend to. Good evening, Mrs. Townsend, no of- 
fence at my hard v^-ords. Thee knows I love thy boy. 

Mrs. Towns. (At door of house) Old friends 
have the privilege of free speech. (Exit into house— 
Pamela stops at steps) 

Davis, (c. Calling to Pamela, who is also about 
to exit) I want to sjx;ak to thee a moment, Pamela. 

Pamela. I'll bo in in a moment, mother dear. 

Mrs. Towns. All right dear. 

Pamela. (Closes door, comes down steps to R. c.) 
What is it, Mr. Davis? Can I do anything for you? 

Davis, (l. c.) Not for me, Pamela, but for thy- 



14 D^ARCY OF THE GUx\EDS. 

self. I do not wish to frighten thy mother or 
Cynthia, but I came here this evening to tell thee 
that the British will take possession of thy house. 

Pamela. Take possession of our house? AVhat 
<lo you mean ? 

Davis. Thy house is too well situated to escape 
requisition. I heard that two officers serving on the 
staff of Lord Corn wallis, were to be quartered there. 

Pamela. Who are they ? 

Davis. An Englisli surgeon, Captain — Oh some- 
Ihiug or other and Major D'Arcy of the Guards, an 
Irishman. 

Pamp:la. An Irishman? Oh, an Irishman! 

Davis. I'm afraid it is too true. 

Pamela. I would rather they had filled our house 
with Hessians. 

Davis. That is why I wish to remove thee to a 
place of safety. 

Pamela. We shall not move one inch. {Crosses 
to house It.) 

Davis. I see no alternative, my dear. 

Pamela. (On the steps of house) Now, Mr. 
Davis, I thank you for your thoughfulness, but we 
may be able to subdue this Irish brave. I can see 
him, a swaggering bully, a military coxcomb, with 
the manners of a peasant, the language of a trooper 
and the air of a conqueror. 

Davis. Thee must not stay here, Pamela. 

Pamela. We must. Irishman or Hessian, we 
will stay till we are driven out. {Lo-ud and discord- 
ant laiighter heard ojf l. They both listen. As it 
ceases) 

Raae. (Ojf stage) That's a nice house, I think 
we sliall like it. 

(Davis turns up toiuard the gate as Capt. Raab and 
('apt. Millhausen enter through gate c. from 
j>. Pa:mi:la remains on steps.) 



D^^RCY OF THE GUARDS. 15 

MiLLHAusEN. (Dowti L. c. to Davis) Are you 

the rebel owner of this house? 

Davis. {Down r. c.) I am neither the owner of 
tills house, nor am I a rebel. 

Raab. (Standing in centre of gate, laughing, 
coarsely) You can't escape us, old shoebuckles, by 
denying 3^our colors. 

Mill. (Who has dropped down to table L., sees 
take on iray, takes up a piece and munches it) No, 
that he can't and this pretty maid ? Does she belong 
with the house? (Sits l. of table L. Pamela draws 
herself vp haughtily) Coy, are you? We'll change 
all that before long, eh, Raab? 

Raab. (Coming down c.) That will we. Captain. 
^rhe si>()iJs of war, eh? 

Mill. (Seated at table L.) Good! But come, 
old man, v.e shall want all your keys. I trust your 
cellars are in good condition? 

Davis, (r. c.) I tell thee, I am not the owner of 
this house. 

Pamela. (On steps) 1 am in charge of this 
liouse. 

Mill, (l.) Ah! You, my pretty one. So much 
the better ! 

Pamela. (Comes down steps) By what authority 
do you force yourself on our hospitality? 

Raab. (Coming towards c.) You use big words, 
my maid. 

Mill, (l.) By the authority of our strong arm. 
You are ours ! 

(Davis goes up c. to Millhausen.) 

Pamela. (Comes down r. c.) I shall report your 
insolence to Sir Vv^illiam Howe and he'll have you 
publicly whipped. 

Mill. (Who has been sealed, on chair L. starts 
toward her) Ha, my little wildcat! I see we shall 
have to tame you ! (Takes her by the hand and swings 



16 D'ARCY OF THE OUAEDS. 

her to L. c. Raab gets to the fo.ot of steps. Davis 
has turned up c. a little) 

Raab. That we shall. {He goes to foot of steps. 
Davis steps hetiveen Pamela and Millhausen) 

Mill. Out of the way, old fool. 

Davis, (l. c. Calmly) I said I was not the 
owner of this house, but I am in a certain way the 
.{guardian of its inmates. {To Pamela) Pamela, 
thee had better go in to Cynthia. 

Mill. (l. c. Angrily) Stand aside ! 

Davis. {Pushes him hack) T don't wish to talk 
to thee. {Crosses to Eaab^ who has got in front of 
door) Thee had better let the young woman pass. 

Mill, {doming doivn on Davis, l. Dratving 
sahre, rushing at Davis) By heavens, I'll split you 
like a chicken ! 

(Davis puts up his cane, holding him off. They 
stand in this attitude) 

Davis, (c.) If thee doesn't ] tut up thy sword, I'll 
take it from thee and break it. 

Raab. (r.) Curse his insolen<te, Millhausen. Run 
the rebel through. 

Mill. (l. c.) I will. {Lunges at Davis with 
his siuord. Davis defends himself with his cane. 
Pamela crosses in front to R. to steps. Raab crosses 
at hack to "l.) 

(Major D'arcy and Captain Ghegory enter quickly 
from c. L. Davis retires up hy steps) 

D'arcy (c.) Hello, hello, liello, what does this 
mean ? 

(MiLLHAUSEN gives way. RaaI3 joins him down l. 
Davis steps hack. Pamela comes doicn steps to 
D'Arcy, who is G.) 

Pamela, (r. c.) Oh, sir! (D'Arcy turns and 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 17 

faces her. They looh at each other. There is an in- 
stant's pause, then) I thank you. 

D'Akcy. (c. Bowing very lotv) I trust you will 
pardon this intrusion, Madam. I am afraid I am in- 
terrupting your friend's morning broadsword exercise. 

Pamela, (r. c. Davis up r.) You have inter- 
rupted two minions in an infamous attack on an un- 
armed old gentleman. 

D'Arcy (c.) Oh, is that so, my dear young lady. 
Faith, handsome does as handsome is, and they are 
not much to look at, are they Greg? 

Gregory, (l. c. Aside, queruously) For heav- 
en's sake, Jack, don't pick up a quarrel. 

D'Arcy. {Aside to Gregory) Hush, man, I am 
dying for a fight. 

Mill. (l. Who has recovered from his discom- 
(iture) Oil, who the devil are you? 

D'Arcy. I am Major D'Arcy of the Grenadier 
(juards. (^4^ he mentions his name, Pamela, who 
has been standing hy him, turns, throws her head up 
and rushes up steps R.) And I'll thank you for a 
trifle more civility. 

Raab. (l. Gruffly) You be 

D'Arcy. Tut, tut, man ! Not in the presence of 
a lady. Madam — (Tunis, expecting to find Pamela 
at his elhoiv, locates her on the step, hows extraga- 
gantly) Madam, may I beg of you to withdraw? 
These gent — aliem ! I mean these officers — are evi- 
dently not accustomed to the presence of your sex. 

Pamela. {On the steps R.) It is a pity that his 
Majesty is forced to require such unpresentable 
allies. 

D'Arcy, (c. Bowing) Madam, I heartily agree 
with you. (Pamela courtesies and exits into house 
R. Davis cotning down to r. corner. To Gregory) 
Slie had us there, Greg, my boy. 

Raab. {Angrily , stepping ioxvard D'Arcy) Damn 
yonr impudence ! 



18 D^ARCY OF THE GUAEDS. 

Mill. {At his had') Yes, you shall answer to us 
for this ! 

(Davis who has vmiched the nonchalant D'Arcy, vAtli 
a sort of fascination, recovers him-^elf) 

Davis, (r) I beg of you, gentlemen, that this 
shall go no further. 

D'x\rcy. (r. c.) I don't know your name, old 
Mr. Drabclothes, but you've had your fun, and I 
won't be cheated out of mine. 1 never permit in- 
solence from mustaches. It's ill luck, eh, Greg? 

Greg. (l. c.) For Heaven's sake, Jack, what will 
the General say? 

Mill. (Going up to gate c.) My second will call 
upon you to-day. 

Raab. (Going up to gate c.) And mine! Where 
are you quartered? 

(They go up to gate. D'Arcy follows Gregory, 
taking the L.) 

D'Arcy. My friend, Capt. Gregory, will make all 
arrangements for me. We shall be quartered here. 
Tlie top of the morning to you. 

(Tkey exeunt at gate c. off l., niuttering threats.) 

Davis, (r.) I pray thee, sir, to reconsider this. 

D'Arcy. (Up c.) ' Tut, tut, sir, I won't hurt 
them. I'll only teach them good manners. 

Davis, (r.) Did thee say thee and thy friends 
would be quartered here? 

D'Arcy". (Coming down v.) Yes, and very fair 
quarters they are, too. I trust we will not incom- 
mode the ladies. 

Davis, (r. c.) It is that I would speak to 
thee about. Mrs. Townsend, her daughter and nieces 
are quite alone here. Mrs. Townsend is an invalid 



D'AKCY OF THE GUARDS. 19 

and the occupation of lier house, I fear, will distress 
her o^reatl}^ 

Gi?RG. (l. c.) You don't think we would hurt 
the women ! We're not Hessians ! 

Davis. My house i.s but a quarter of a mile away 
— it is at thy disposal. 

D'Akcy. '(c.) Thy liouse, sir? 

Davis, (r. c.) The house of Samuel Davis. 

D'AiJCY. (c.) Samuel Davis! It is already 
occupied, my very good sir. 

Davis, (r. Astounded) Occupied! Why, T am 
J), Royalist! 

Gkeo. (l. c.) Then you will be overjoyed to 
hear that my Lord Cornwallis has his lieadquarters 
there. 

D'Arcy. (c.) Tell mo, my good sir, was that 
Mrs. Townsend T just had the honor of addressing? 

Davis. Nay. That was Miss Pamela ToM-nsend. 
Mrs. Townsend's daughter. 

D'Arcy. Ah, Pamela!— (To Davis) Well, my 
\ery good sir, I like the way you handled those 
rascally Dutchmen. Your friends will be much 
safer with us in the house than on the outside. We 
will serve to keep such vermin out, and will give 
iliem very little trouble. Two bedrooms — (Davis 
^ttarlx for Ihr door) and a sitting room — {He stops) 
is nil tlml w(; require. 

Davis. (Oh .sirps) T thank thee, sir, for thy 
('(.iisider<(li(>ii. {E.iils Jiurriedly inio the house as if 
(<'if.n'ous to escape any farther deniands. The moment 
Ik is 1/011 e, D'Arcy" turns raplurously to Gregory) 

D'Arcy. (k. c.) Greg, my boy, she's a duchess 
in disgnist'. 

Greg. (j-. c.) Who is a duciiess in disguise? 

D'AiK'^'. Ah. you lump of ice. You're as hike 
warm as weak tea. Didn't you notice the girl with 
the graujl manner i)nd the foot like a fairy? 

Gi.'EG. And a tongue like a rapii^-. 

D'AifCY. (r. c.) Sure, you're an uugjili.-inl lout, 



20 D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

like the rest of your countrymen. My lady has the 
gift of language and uses it. 

Greg. (l. c.) She must be Irish! 

D'Arcy. Faith, I can account for her in no other 
way! 

Greg. No filandering, Jack! 

D'Arcy. You're vulgar, Capt. Gregory. 

Greg. I wish to the Devil, you had not quarreled 
with those fellows. 

D'Arcy. Don't worry, Greg. They're as clumsy 
as Englishmen, and I won't hurt them. 
_Greg. You don't seem to realize that being on 
Lord Cornwallis' side, demands discretion. 

D'Arcy. Discretion, is it? Sure, there's no such 
word in Irish? 

Greg. Your father would never see you again 
if you disgraced yourself. 

D'Arcy. He wouldn't recognize me as a son of 
his if I didn't. 

Greg. Oh, Jack, you're never serious. 

D'Arcy. No, I'm an Irishman. (Crosses l.) 

Greg. (c. In a pet) I refuse ix) act as your 
second. 

D'Arcy. (l. c. Wheedles him) Now, Greg, 
dear, you're behaving unhandsomely. I've only had 
three fights ever since we landed in New York, seven 
months ago. 

Greg. And each time you swore to me it would 
be the last. 

D'Arcy. And I kept my oath. 

Greg. (In disgust) You kept your oath. 

D'Arcy. I did, I did. Each time was the last 
time. Don't you see that Greg? (Laughs) Come, 
Greg, just this once. AATiat, would you have those 
Dutch beggars laughing at the guards? 

Greg. (Wavering) You'll not hurt 'em? 

D'Arcy. Upon me honor, Greg, I'll only disarm 
them. 

Greg. Jack D'Arcy, you'll ruin me along with 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 21 

3'oiirseli'. You wouldn't have bothered your head 
about those rascals, if it hadn't been for the little 
rebel wench inside. 

D'Aecy. Greg, she's a lady. Rebel, or no rebel, 
and no Irish orentleman would stand by and see her 
insulted. (Crosses r.) 

Gkeg. You will have your hands full, if you're 
if^oing to protect every little American who has a 
neat ankle and a pretty mouth. 

D'Arcy. I shall take it unkindly, Greg, if you 
make any more disparaging remarks about the 
Duchess. 

Greg. Have it your own way. {Drops down 

L C.) 

(aiange from SUNSET to MOONLIGHT.) 

D'Arcy. (c.) You'll second me? 

Greg. I will. Have I ever refused? 

D'Arcy. (Taking his hand) No, you're a jewel! 
And now scatter yourself and look after our luggage. 
I'll go in and arrange matters with our hostess. 

Greg. (Laughing) Our hostess. Jack, you're 
incorrigible ! 

D'Arcy. (Gaily) Go on with j^ou, don't be call- 
ing me names ! (Gregory goes up to gate c. D'Arcy 
ivalJcs up with him) Hurry back, I'm in the hands 
of the enemy. (Pamela appears at door of house. 
Gregory in dumb show, calls D'Arcy's attention to 
her. He holes at her) Greg, my boy, I was mis- 
taken. She's not a duchess in disguise. She's every 
inch a queen. (Gregory starts to go. Aside) Greg, 
I'll find out if she's Irish. 

(Gregory exits l., choking with laughter. Pamela 

closes door of house, comes down steps, crosses 

to table L., hears D'Arcy behind her, turns as 

he takes off his hat and advances towa/rd her.) 

D'Arcy. The fortunes of war. Miss TowTisend, 

throw us upon your bounty. 



22 D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

Pamela. The fortunes of war make us unwilling 
hosts. 

D'Arcy. 'Tis the order of my chief that forces 
your hospitality. Lord Cornwallis has directed me 
and Capt. Gregory to lodge here. 

Pamela. I do not v/ish to seem ungracious, nor 
unmindful of your chivalrous defence of my cousin 
and myself, but I cannot forget that you are an 
enemy of my country and I hate your being here. 

D'Akcy. Oh, my dear young lady, you make me 
feel no better than one of those rascally Hessians. 

Pamela. (Naively) Oh, you are better than 
they. 

D'Arcy. I thank you for the slightest commenda- 
tion, though it comes from the most odious of com- 
parisons. 

Pamela. We judge a man by his friends — a soldier 
])y his allies. 

D'Arcy. (c.) Faith, and you're quite right. 
And I am thinking it will raise the people's opinion 
of the Dutchman, if they measure 'em by the com- 
pany they're keeping now. 

Pamela, (l. c. Smiling in spite of herself) I 
suppose we should be thankful that they are not to 
be our guests. 

D'Arcy. T shall twist that into a half welcome at 
least. 

(Pamela turns defiantly.) 

Pamela. Heaven forbid that a British uniform 
should have even a half welcome to our house. 

D'Arcy. 1 was never before tempted to desert 
me colors. 

Pamela. Would that the temptation were strong 
enough. 

. D'Arcy. Ah, Miss Townsend, the prestige of the 
British army wcndd disappear entirely if it were sub 
jeeted to it. 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 23 

Pamela. I know of nothing that I would more 
dadly see disappear. (She takes up the iray and 
turns toward the house) Whatever you and Capt. 
(^reoory need shall be freely given. (Facing D'Arcy, 
trWi the tray in tier hand) 

D'AiicY. (Pointing lo the tray) Will it? Might 
I ask for a disli of tea? 

Pamela. You evidently forget, Major D'Arcy, 
that tea is a beverage which Americans have decided 
to do without. 

D'AncY. If you'll allow me to say it, I think you 
sadly muddled your own interests. 

Pamela. We kept our principles clear. 

D'Arcy. And what's the good of principle with- 
out ijitorest? 

(PAi\rEL\ turyis haclc, places tray on table L.) 

Pamela. A tradesman's argument. 

D'Arcy'. (Good humoredly) Faith, so it is and 
I'll adjure it. But being an Irishman, a fight's a 
tight, whatever the cause of it may be. 

Pamela. 1 can offer you nothing but a dish of 
cold chocolate. 

D'Arcy. Well, every soldier has to learn to take 
his medicine. (Takes the cup) And it is seldom 
he has it from the hands of so fair a physician. 
(Sips it, looks at her smiling) Nectar! (Turns 
away and makes a wry face) 

Pamela. Were I one, my prescription for you 
and your friends would be plenty of powder. 
(^Crosses hack to table) 

D'Akcy. Why, Miss Townsend, that's our favorite 
diet. 

Paalela. I am sorry that your entry into 
Pliiladolphia has not been more to your taste. 

(WAEN CURTAIN.) 

(Ready Band and Drum and Fife r.) 



24 D'ARCY OF THE GIJAEDS. 

D^Arcy. (Holding up his cup) I admit, our 
reception has been cold. (Sipping the chocolate 
again) But nevertheless, it's rather sweet. (Pamela 
turns sharply) I mean the chocolate. 

Pamela. Your pleasure at being here, Major 
D'Arcy, is the measure of our regret. 

D'Arcy. No, no, it's not possible, that anyone 
(!Oiild regTet anything so much. 

Pamela. (Turns. Petulantly) Are you blind? 

D'Arcy. (Interrupting) It's only dazzled I am. 

Pamela. (Advancing to D'Arcy) Can you 
realize what it means to us, to us — to have onr town 
over-run, our very houses invaded by such a rabble 
as you so fortunately saved us from? 

D'Arcy. (With mock fear) Would you take the 
cup? (She takes it and goes hack to table) And 
all because we have a slight difference of opinion. 
Do you know, Miss Townsend, that I think if King 
George and his Counsellors, and this Mr. Washing- 
ton of yours, and his, were to Jet you and me sit here 
quietly in this old garden and talk the matter over, 
we could arrange the little difficulty very amicably. 

Pamela. I am afraid you would have to make 
too many concessions. Major D'Arcy. 

D'Arcy. (Quickly) I'd concede everything 
entirely. You should have all the tea the Indians 
could send you. Stamps wouldn't cost you a pennv 
and I'd have a special seat with a canopy constructed 
for you in the House of Commons, and when you 
journeyed to London to assume your prerogatives, 
you should be treated in right royal fashion. The 
Mall on a fine morning, presentation to his gracious 
Majesty at St. James' why you should have a couit 
all to yourself and there would be no lack of courtiers. 
Tell me, do my terms appeal to you, Miss Townsend ? 

(Pamela has stood looking into vacancy, fascinated, 
suddenly picks up tray,) 



D'AKCY OP THE GUARDS. 25 

Pamkla. Your fancy carries you far. {Crosses 
towards house) 

D'Arcy. {Following her up) I wish it might 
carry me farther, and that ive might he friends. {She 
has reached the foot of the steps and turns as if to 
speak, ivheii the strains of " Rule Britannia " played 
off L. by miUtary band, comes faintly to her ears, she 
.straightens up and very sternly) 

Pamela, (r.) We might be friends, but we are 
enemies ! 

D'Arcy. Tlien be a kindly one and permit me to 
serve you. {He takes the tray. Fife and drum corps 
strike up " Yankee Boodle " from the R. in the dis- 
tance. They listen attentively. Moment's pause. 
Pamela raises her head proudly, turns, marches up 
stage, throws open the door and exits into house) 

{FIFE and DRUM r.) 

QUICK CURTAIN. 

(.4^ cue: "Might I ask for a dish of tea" Sunset 
effect commences, works down to blue on entire 
stage; at end of act have amber bunch light 
back of door so light strikes D'Arcy tvhen 
Pamela opens door vn house at end of act.) 



36 D'AKCY OF THE C4UARDS. 



ACT 11. 

Scexe: — The Library or hoolc room of the Townsend 
house; a moniing three months later. 
A large comfortable room panelled high in creaym 
colored wood. There are doors at upper and 
lower L. The upper door leads to the main 
entrance door of the house; the lower door to 
the apartment occupied' hy Major D'Arcy and 
Gregory. A door at upper R. leads to the apart- 
ment occupied by the Townsends. At R. center 
is a huge fire-place with andirons and burning 
logs. A mantel shelf stands high over this, on 
which, at either end, are elaborate candelabra, 
and in the center a clock. At bach r. and l. are 
long windows reaching to the floor and through 
which the garden may be seen. A long mahogany 
sofa stands between these windows, and over it 
hangs an old mirror. A large mahogany table 
stands l. c. tvith writing materials, quills, ink, 
etc., etc. There are several chairs about and 
book shelves fiU several of the wall spaces. 
Long curtains in old rose, hang at the windoios 
omd the sofa and chairs are upholstered in green 
velvet. Gregory's cloak and hat on chair r. 
of table. 

DISCOVERED :— Pamela and Cynthia may be 
seen off back passing the windows from r. to l. 
They stop for a second at the window L. and 
look in, then disappear. A moment later they 
enter from door upper r. They are both in furs 
and carry the quaint long muffs of the old time. 

Cynthia. (r. v. rushes towards lite fire and 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 37 

.<:preads her fingers to fhe blaze) I'm frozen stiff, 
Pamela. 

PA]\rELA. (c.) You don't walk fast enough, I'm 
all in a glow. 

Cynthia. Your nose is as pink as a cherry. 

Pamela. It isn't, Cynthia. 

Cynthia. (Rubbing her own) Well it should 
be. I know mine is. 

Pamela. [Going to her and pinching her ear. 
Cynthia stands with skirt drawn up, one foot on 
the fender) Little Malepert! 

Cynthia. Ouch! (They both laugh) Pamela, 
I thought surely we would have had some word from 
Harry this week. 

Pamela, (c.) Don't worry, dear. He's cooped 
up there at Valley Forge fretting himself sick to see 
lis. 

Cynthia. (.4/ fire-place ii. c.) It is nearly six 
weeks since he has last got through. 

Pamela. (^4/ table l. c. laughing) And then 
you made him promise never to risk it again. 

Cynthia. I know Pamela, but don't you think 
he should come to see Aunt Clarissa — and you? 

Pamela. Liitle Hoax! What n lovelorn maiden 
she is. We know he's safe. 

Cynthia, (c. romes down towards her) It is 
ten days since we've had word. 

Pamela. Oh, there's no need to worry dear. 
{Olancing al the cloclc on manlelpiece) Heigho, it's 
past eleven. ] suppose our lodgers have departed foi- 
tl^eir morning's arduous duties. (Impatienlly) Oh, 
when are we to get rid of tliat insufferable Irish 
dandy and liis jiiedical c<unpnnion? 

Cynthlv. We might chnnge lodgers and fare 
worse. 

PA]\n:LA. (Bored) I can hardly conceive of it. 

C'YNTHIa. Y^ou evidently fori^et the Hessians. 

IVamela. Ugh! Don't mention those creatures. 
(Crossing to fire-place up it. c.) 



28 D^APtCY OF THE GUAEDS. 

Cynthia. And yet it was the Irish dandy that 
saved us from them, and at peril of his life, too. 

Pamela. (Perverse) Pshaw ! 

Cynthia. You are unkind, Pamela. Didn't ho 
fight both of those horrible men? {8its c.) 

Pamela. Oh, that was nothing. Any man would 
have done the same. He wasn't hurt. 

Cynthia. {Loohing over to door l. 1 e.) No, 
but they were, and he came very near being Court 
Martialled as Mr. Davis told us. 

Pamela. (Stooping to her — talcing Cynthia's 
chin in her hand) You dear little coz are you going 
over to the enemy ? 

Cynthia. No, but I believe in giving the devil his 
due. 

Pamela. (Crossing to l. c.) Don't worry about 
the devil, dear ; he will take care of himself and his 
own. 

Cynthia. They have been very kind and con- 
siderate. Capt. Gregory has helped Aunt Clarissa 
a great deal. 

Pamela. I don't object to the doctor; his profes- 
sion is a merciful one. But that coxcomb Major 
D'Arcy with his fine London airs and his red coats 
drive me to frenzy. And that brogue. (Puts her 
fingers to her ears tvith a comical air) Oh, that 
brogue ! 

Cynthia. (Laughing) It should plead for him; 
it's not English. 

Pamela. No, but it's British. 

Cynthia. (Coming dotcn l. c.) You're relent- 
less. 

Pamela. (Crosses to her) As long as we are 
prisoners. 

Cynthia. Well, it can't last forever. 

Pamela. The day they evacuate the city, I shall 
begin to like them. When they sail for England I 
shall adore them. 



D'AECY OF THE GUARDS. 29 

Cynthia. A fine way to love your enemies. 
(Crosses to R.) 
PajMELa. The most beautiful in the world, dear; 

«at a distance. ( Goi7ig up to fire) 

* 
(Sa^^ibo, a darl-ey servant in quiet livery, enters from 
door at l. 3 e. with a letter in his hand.) 

Cynthia, (r.) What is it, Sambo? 

Sambo. A letter for Miss Pamela. {Going to 
Pamela and then hack to door down l. 3 e.) 

Pamela. {Down c. taking the letter) For me, 
Sambo? {Looking at it) Why it is from Harry, 
Cynthia. 

Cynthia. {Coming to her R.) From Harry? 

Pamela. Yes. {Breaks the seal) Who left it, 
Sambo ? 

Sambo. A farmer gave it to Cicely at the gate, and 
went right off. 

Cynthia. {Looking over Pamela's shoulder) 
What does he say, Pamela? 

Pa'mela. {Scanning the note, eagerly) All is 
well, he is coming. 

Sambo. {At door l. 3 e.) Excuse me — excuse me, 
i;; Massa Harry well. Miss? 

Pamela. (Going up to fire r. c.) Yes, Sambo. 

Sambo. Thank the Lord for that, Miss Pamela. 
(Exits L. 3 e.) 

Cynthia. (Going up to Pamela) Quick, dear 
Pamela; read it to me. It is cruel to keep me in 
suspense. 

Pamela. (In front of fire. Reading) " Dearest 
Sis : — I just have a chance of getting word through to 
you. I only write to say that I hope to be with you 
as soon as this. I shall leave the camp before day- 
break to-morrow morning " 

Cynthia. That's to-day. 

Pamela. So it is. The date is yesterday the 
28th. 



30 D'ARCY OF THE GUAEDS. 

Cynthia. Please read on. You are so slow 
Pamela. 
Pamela. Who interrupted, pray? 
Cynthia. Fll not do it again if you'll go on. 

( The door at lower l. opens and Gregory enters just 
as Pamela conti7iues reading the letter. They 
ore quite unconscious of his entrance and stand 
with their hacks to him.) 

P.AMELA. {Continuing to read) " I shall leave; 

t^anip before daybreak to-morrow morning, disguised 

as '^ 

Gregory. (Coughs) Ahem, ladies. 

(Cynthia gives a little cry, Pamela crushes th^ 
letter in her hand as they turn toiuard Gregory.) 

Pamela. (Moves forivard. Composed and uncon- 
cerned) Good morning, Captain Gregory. 

Greg, (l.) Good moniing to you. Miss Town- 
send, and to you. Miss Deane. T hope T am not 
intruding? 

Cynthia. Oh, not at all. 

P.vmela. We are hugging the fire after our walk. 

Greg. It's a bitter day. 1 trust your mother is 
well this morning? 

Pamela. Very well thank you, Doctor. AVe are 
i^oing to her now. Come, Cynthiti. (Crossini/ fo door 
R. 1 E.) 

Greg. I'm driving you away. 
Cynthia. Oh, no indeed. We were just going 
when you entered. 

Greg. My compliments to Madame Townsend. 
Pamela. Thank you. 

{As they are about to exit Pamela dropx the letie>' 
on the floor. Gregory notices it and 4- ahoul 
to step forivard to pi-ch it up, hut changes his 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 31 

iii'wd.. Pamela and Cynthia pass out at door 
R. 1 E. As the door closes heliind them, Gregory 
stoops and picks up the letter. He is standing 
loohinq at the superscription ivhen D'Arcy enters 
from loiver L. 1 E. He is very smartly dressed 
in uniform and like Gregory, carries a military 
great (oai over his arm.) 

D'Arcy. {Evidently in a had humor) Hello, 
Greg. Not gone yet? (Enters from lower l. and 
crossing in front of Gregory — drops cloak and hat on 
chair R. to fire upu. c.) 

Gregory, (c.) No, I'm trying to thaw out. 
Devilish cold climate this. 

D'Ai.ty. (Up R. Standing before the fire) T 
lielieve these damned Americans would make it warm 
enough for u.s, if we'd only give 'em a show. 

Gregory, (l. c.) Well, you'll have your chance 
to-moiTow. 

D'Arcy. (Up r. c.) Yes, worse luck. 

Gregory. What's the matter, Jack? 

D'Ar( -Y. Oh, nothing's the matter ; don't bother m 
fellow. 

Greg. (With concern. Crossing to D'Arcy) 
Jack, I believe you're not well. 

D'Arcy. Go on. You want to physic me. Well 
I'm not well. 

Greg. What is it? (Turning D'Arcy around) 

D'Arcy. (With a twinJcle in his eye, which 
Gregory doesn't notice. He i^ too much engrossed in 
his professional point of view) I have some sort of 
trouble here. (Puts his hand to his heart) 

Greg. Your heart? 

D'Arcy. Wliere it ought to be. 

Greg. Nonsense, you're as sound as a horse. 
(Crosses from him to L.) 

D'Arcy. AVell, T ought to know. 

Greg. (l. c.) Tell me about it. What are your 
symptoms ? 



32 D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

D'Arcy. Well, Greg, my appetite seems to be dis- 
appearing, and I'm losing interest in everything. 
(Crossing^B,. to c.) 

Greg. I've noticed it. 

D'Arcy. And whenever I'm with a certain person, 
r have a tremendous palpitation in my heart. 

Greg. Jack D'Arcy, are yon going away? (Cros.<- 
ing to L. of table) 

D'Arcy. Maybe it's the same thing, Greg. I'm in 
love. 

Greg. {Sitting down in astonishment) Well, I'll 
be damned. {Sitting l. of table) Do you mean to 
say that you've worked me up to an operation pitch, 
with nothing but a tale of love sickness? 

D'Arcy. You seem to think it's nothing serious. 

Greg. What, if it is serious? You don't suppose 
that I keep love draughts on tap, do you ? 

D'Arcy. Ah, Gregy, you're unkind to me. Yoii 
liave no sentiment. 

Greg. {Rising, going toivard D'Arcy) Who is 
it — this time? 

D'Arcy. (c.) 1 resent your " this time " Captain 
Gregory, you know better than anyone, that I wasn''t 
so.rious the last time with Lady Betty Grey, or the 
time before with Miss Germainc, or even with the 
Countess of Clew. 

Greg. (l. c. laughing out) Jack, you'll be the 
death of me. 

D'Arcy. Faith, I should like to be — You've no 
more sympathy for the tender passion than a stone. 

Greg. {StiM laughing hard) My sympathies are 
broad. Jack, but I've never been able to cover your 
tender passions with them. {Laughing) 

D'Arcy. (c. ruffled laugh) You're mighty 
amused at my expense. 

Greg. (l. c.) Who is it, Jack? 

D'Arcy. {As if offended) I'll not call upon you 
to stretch your elastic sympathy any further. Captain 
G regory. 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 33 

Greg. {Coaxing) I was only teasing, Jack. 
D'xiRCY. You'll not breathe it to a soul? 
Greg. I swear. 
D'Arcy. It's the Duchess. 
Greg. (Mystified) The Duchess? 
D'Arcy. Pamela. 
Greg. Miss Townsend? 

D'Arcy. Yes, the loveliest creature that ever 
tripped a minuet, or killed with the glance of brown 
e3es. She was born under the aegis of divine Diana, 
and all the Goddess' gifts have been showered on her. 
[Crosses to L.) Oh, Greg, why haven't you heart 
enough to know what I'm talking about? (Crossing 
back of him to fire-place upn.) 

Greg. (r. c. to r. of table l.) Too much heart 
-iddles the brains. 

D'Arcy. (Near fire-place) Pah! Your blood 
I uns icy cold. 

Greg, (l.) I saw your divinity but a moment 
before you came in. 
D'Arcy. (At fire-place. Eagerly) She was here? 
Greg. (Drily) Yes, curiously occupied. 
D'Arcy. What do you mean? 
Greg. She was reading what I judged to be a love 
letter. 

D'Arcy. (Losing his poise for a minute) A love 
—letter, man ! How do you know ? Whom was she 
leading to ? 

Greg. (l. c.) As I came in she and her cousin 
were standing where you stand, with their backs to 
Die. I hapi>ened to hear these words, "I shall leave 
camp before daybreak to-morrow disguised as — " 
'Vhen I thought it was time to 'discover myself. 
D'Arcy. That was all you heard ? 
Greg. All. 

D'Arcy. (Laughing uneasily) Ah, you're sus- 
picious by nature, Greg, like all Englishmen. The 
note was to Miss Deane. (Turning to fire) 
Greg. (l. c.) I happen to know differently. 



34 D'AECY OF THE GUARDS. 

D'Arcy. Differently? 

Greg. (Front of table l. c.) Yes. Here is the 
billet doux. Miss Townsencl dropped it, as she went 
out. 

D^Arcy. {^Coming down to table L. c. Eagerly 
taking it) Let me see it. (He reads the superscrip- 
tion) To Miss Pamela Townsend. (He turns it over 
and looks at the broken seal) And what did you hear 
Greg ? 

Greg. " I shall leave camp before daybreak to- 
morrow disguised as " 

D'Arcy. Why the devil didn't you wait to hear 
how the blackguard was going to disguise himself. 
(Going up to fire-place Vx. c.) 

(Gregory in front of iahle.) 

Greg. You hold the key to the mystery in your 
hand. 

D'Arcy. (r. c. front of fire. Reproachfully) 
Greg, I wouldn't have thought it of you. 

Greg. (c. front of table) Yet you would have me 
eavesdrop for your personal satisfaction. 

D'Arcy. (Going to him) Forgive me, old man, 
I'm not myself. What do you make of it? (Looks 
at the letter again) 

Greg. Honest ? 

D'Arcy. Honest, Gregg. 

Greg. I think there is someone in whom the fair 
Miss Townsend is particularly interested in the rebel 
camp at A^alley Forge, who intends getting through 
the lines to pay the lady a visit. 

D'Arcy. (Crosses to r. corner) Faith, the gentle- 
man will never returii alive to Valley Forge, if I once 
clap eyes on him. 

Greg. Well, he evidently hasn't arrived yet, or she 
wouldn't have been reading his letter so eagerly. 

D'Arci\ (Crossing to Gregory) You break my 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 35 

heart, Greg. Was she really reading the scoundrel's 
letter eagerly? 

Greg. (Trying to soften it) Not so very eagerly, 
Jack. 

D'Arcy. {Grasping his hand) Thank you for 
that, Gregg, thank you. You're the best friend a 
man could have. 

Greg. (Heartily) Brace yourself, Jack. We 
must improve that heart action, eh ? 

D'Arcy. Faint heart will never do, will it. 
Greg? 

Greg. Not for so fair a lady. Jack. 

D'xArcy. (Clapping him on the shoulder) Egad. 
Greg, you have a soul above pill-boxes and lancets, 
after all. 

Greg. The proper spirit. We'll capture the fair 
dame, just as we'll bag Mr. Washington and his mob 
of rag-a-muffins to-morrow. Eh, Jack ? By force of 
arms. (Going up L.) 

D'Arcy. You're an immodest saw-bones, be gone 
v/ith you. (Gregory exits l. u. door laughing. 
D'Arcy turns and moves toivards the door at r. 1 e 
As he nearly reaches it, Pamela enters hurriedly, 
evidently a hit flurried. They almost collide. She 
goes over to fire-place) I beg ten thousand pardons. 
Miss To\vnsend, I am very awkward. 

Pamela. It was my fault. (She looks anxiously 
ahout the floor to see if she can discover the letter) 

D'Arcy. You are hunting for something? 

Pamela. (Moving to fire then doivn to L.) Yes. 
! dropped a letter, I think, when T was here a few 
moments ago. 

D'Arcy. (Coming down c.) Maybe this is it. 
{Holds it out) 

Pamela. (A trifle confused) Yes, yes, that is it. 
(She talres it) Thank ycm. Tt was very stupid of 
nic. 

D'Arcy. 1 was about to brin.i;- it to you. Oaptain 
Gregory picked it up. 



36 D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

Pamela. (Recovering her composure) It wa^ 
very kind of you. (She starts to leave the room. 
D'Arcy is on pins and needles. As she passes him 
going to fire-place, he speaTcs) 

D'Arcy. (c.) Miss Townsend? 

Pamela. (Up at door e. 1 e.) Yes? 

D^Arcy. May I speak with 3^ou one moment? 

Pamela. (Turns hack inquiringly com,ing to R. 
c.) \Yhat is it? 

D'Arcy. (Apologetically) A small company of 
Officers is to meet here to-night. (Hesitates) 

Pamela, (r. c.) Yes. 

D'Arcy. (l. c.) May we have — a — a undis- 
turbed possession of this room? 

Pamela. You mean that you will require the 
household to retire early? 

D'Arcy. You interpret my request harshly. 

Pamela. I save you that trouble. 

D'Arcy. Believe me. Miss Townsend, if it will 
ir anyway inconvenience you, I will do my best to 
have the rendezvous changed. 

Pamela. Major D'Arcy^ you and your conipanions 
in arms have occupied Philadelphia now for two 
months. I don't complain; it's the fortune of war. 
But it is no kindness to me to mask your demands 
under guise of courteous request. 

D'Arcy. You wrong my intention, Miss Town- 
send. 

Pamela. I have no wish to profit by any special 
consideration on your part. Every British officer 
should have broken his sword, rather than have 
turned it against the people of his own blood, fight- 
ing justly. (Crosses l.) 

D'Arcy. (c.) You speak from the heart? 

Pamela, (l. c.) That is where I feel. 

D'Arcy. I would give anything in all the world — 
except my sword, for some small place there. 

Pamela. (Drawing herself up coldly — ttirning 
to him) Major D'Arcy! 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 37 

D'Arcy. (r. c.) Don't turn away, Miss Town- 
send ! No girl need be afraid of a tale of honest love. 
And — and I have such a tale to tell. 

Pamela, (l. c.) I cannot listen to you. Let me 
pass. 

D'Arcy. (Stopping her. Quietly) I must speak, 
Miss Townsend. Ever since that autumn morning, 
two months a^o, when I came into your garden, and 
saw you standiiior like some lovely flower, I have loved 
you. (She turns from him) Don't shrink from 
me. It is no crime for a man to bend to the fragrance 
of a rose, and my lips would prove recreant to my 
heart if they refused longer to speak. 

Pamela, (l. c. turning to him) Major D'Arcy. 
you take advantage of your position in this house 
to speak in a manner that you must know is distaste- 
ful to me. 

D'Arcy. (c.) God forgive you. Miss Townsend, 
for doubting my motives. (Turns r.) I could stand 
your indifference to the little I have to offer; my 
life, but your scorn humbles me beyond the telling, 
showing as it does how little you understand what I 
wish. 

Pamela. (Coldly, turning to him) I could not 
desire to understand what you wish, (Stepping up a 
little) and as for doubting your motives. Major 
D'Arcy, an American woman has no other alternative. 
To be loyal to her country, she must be loyal to her 
self, and I beg of you, if you are a gentleman, that 
you will never refer again to a subject that is painful 
to us both. 

D'Arcy. (r. c. Pulls himself together and bows 
mth anair) I trust, Miss Townsend, you will pardon 
my indiscretion. I have the honor to bid you good 
morning. (He turns and crosses towards the door 
at upper l.) 

Pamela, (c. not looking at him) This apart- 
ment will bo quite at your service this evening, as 
you request. 



38 D'AECY OF THE GUARDS. 

D^Arcy. (Turning) Thank you. (He exits l. v. 
door and a moment later can he seen, passing the 
windows with his cloalc ahout him from L. to K. 
Pamela stands quite still for several moments, then 
taking the l. The door at lower R. opens quickly and 
Cynthia stands in the doorway for a moment) 

(Cynthia heckons Harry on. A second later Harry 
enters R. u. d. to c. Pamela rushes to him. 
lie is disguised' in the dress of a country man 
with heavy woolen stockings and hoots and rough 
clothes.) 

Pamela. {In his arms) Brother ! 

TowNSEND. (r. c.) Sis dear, here I am. (Kisses 
her) You got my note ? 

Cynthia. (Up r. Hovering around, gets round 
and doivn l.) Not half an hour ago. 

Pamela, (l. c. gaily) You should have brought 
it yourself. 

TowNSEND. It would havc been safer. I had a 
hard time getting through. As roads are more care- 
fully guarded than before, I thought they were after 
me once. But I gave them the slip! (Crossing to 
fire and kneeling, at fire to warm his hands) 

Pamela. It was dangerous coming by day. 
{Following him up) 

Townsend. It would have been worse by night. 

Cynthia, (l.) I must go tell Aunt Clarissa. 
Pll be back in a moment. (She exits up l.) 

Pamela. (By fire-place) Are you well, boy? 

ToavxVsend. (Laughing) As well as it's safe to 
be. (Back to fire) And how is my Pamela? Do 
your lodgers give you any trouble ? 

Pamela. They are models, Harry, and are really 
a great protection, you know. 

Townsend. That Irish Major, wliafs his name, 
does he behave civilly, and treat you with respect? 

1^\mela. He's very nice, for a red coat. 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 39 

TowNSKNi). I have heard as nmch. 

Pamela. (Tnterested) You have heard of him? 

TowNSEND. {Standing front of fire-place) Yes, 
curiously enough, the young Marquis de Lafayette, 
whom I told you about, met him in Paris two years 
ngo, and speaks very highly of him, 

Pamela. (Eagerly) Tell me, what did he say? 

TowN'SEND. Oh, he said he was a son of Lord 
D'Arcy, who was on the British Embassy at Paris. 
That's all. 

Pamela. (Disappointed, dropping down c.) Is 
that all? 

Towxsend. (He remains at fire-place. Noticing 
her interest) The Major hasn't been recruiting in 
the household, has he? 

Pamela. What do you mean? 

TowxsE]SD. The red coat is not proving too at- 
Iractive. Eh, sis? 

(D'Aecy crosses r. to l.) 

Pamela. You stupid boy! If you knew how T 
despise him 

(At this moment, D'Arcy can he seen passing out- 
side the window from r. quickly. When he 
reaches the luindow at l. he stops arid looks in 
and sees Pamela and Townsend. A moment 
later he withdraws quickly.) 

TowNSENT^. (Jumps up) What was that? 

Pamela. What? 

Townsend. I thought I heard someone on the 
terrace? (Goes to window at R. FAMmjA following) 

Pamela. (Uponhi^L.) Your imagination dear. 

Tov^NSEND. (Jumping hack quickly towards fire) 
Imagination, the devil, Pamela ! Do you see those 
red-jackets going around the corner of the house? 
(Indicates L.) 



40 D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

Pamela. Soldiers? Where? (She looks, 
Cynthia noshes into the room and shuts the door 
at upper l. quickly behind her) 

Cynthia. (Getting on his n,) Harry, Harry, the 
house is surrounded. Quick, what are we to do? 

(All coming down.) 

TowNSBND. (Quietly draws a pistol from, his over- 
coat pocket) I felt that I hadn't thrown them off 
the track. I must make a run for it. (He makes 
start for R. u. door) 

Pamela. (Stopping him) It would be folly. 
They would shoot you before you'd ^one ten steps. 

(SOLDIERS TRUMPET.) 

TowNSEND. I can't be taken. I'm in the enemies' 
lines, disguised, that means 

Cynthia. (Rushes up to ivifidows) Ssh. AVhat 
shall we do, Pamela? 

Pamela, (l. c.) There is only one thing to do. 
Come this way. (She moves towards door at lower 

L.) 

Townsend. (Follows her doubtfully) Where? 

Pamela. The old spare chamber; Major D'Arcv 
occupies it. Find mother, Cynthia, and see that she 
is not alarmed. 

(Cynthia rushes to Townsend, lie holds her in his 
arms tenderly. ) 

Townsend. There, there, dear, I'll outwit tliem 
yet. 

Cynthia. Oh, Harry, I'm afraid. 

Pamela. Come. (Cynthia exits hurriedly r. 1 
K.) They will not enter Major D'Arc/s chamber, if 
I can help it. 

Townsend. They will never take me alive if they 
do. (Holds up pistol significantly) 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 41 

Pamela. No, no, not that. Go now. (She opens 
the door L. 1 e.) 

(TowNSEND exits L. 1 E. Pamela closes the door 
and locks it taking the key, then tualks over to 
fire-place. The tramp of feet is heard, off l. u. d. 
The door is flung open and a Sergeant with a 
file of Grenadiers marches in. Draiv up l. 
side of stage.) 

Pamela. (At fire-place up r.) What is the mean- 
ing of this intrusion? 

Sergeant, (c.) A rebel spy has been traced to 
this house. Have orders to search all apartments. 

Pamela. There are no apartments on this side of 
the house. 

Sergeant. (Pointing to R. 1 e.) Where does that 
door lead? 

Pamela. To the entrance hall. 

(Sergeant crosses the room, opens door at r. 1 e. 
and looks out. Then returns L. c.) 

Sergeant. And that? (Pointing to door l. 1 e.) 

Pamela. (Coming down r. c. Not watching 
him) Oh, there is a suite of chambers there. But 
they are occupied. 

Sergeant. Humph! We'll inspect them. (Goes 
((f door and tries it L. 1 e.) It's locked. 

Pamela, (c.) I suppose so. 

Sergeant. (At door l. 1 e.) Where's the key? 

Pamela. One might imagine the occupant would 
liave it. 

Sergeant. We'll liave the door open, Corporal. 

(One of the Grenadiers steps forward and crosses to 
door and attempts to break in door with gun.) 

Pamela. (Quietly) 1 rloubt if Major D'Arcy will 
fare for that. 

Sergeant. (Stopping) Major who? 



42 D'AECY OF THE GUARDS. 

Pamela. Major D'Arcv of the guards. 

Sergeant. (Suspiciously) Ts he quartered here ? 

Pamela. I have said so. 

Sergeant. Why is the door locked? 

Pamela. Major D'Arcy is at Headquarters and 
will no doubt give you any information you require — 
and perhaps even the keys. 

(Sergeant tvhispers with the Corporal for a moment, 
they both look suspiciously toward Pamela, who 
has turned away unconcernedly.) 

Sergeant. We'll go in anyhow. 

Pamela, (c. trying to appear indifferent) As 
you please. {Turns up. They move towards the door 
and are about to force it when D'Arcy enters hur- 
riedly L. u. e.) 

D'Arcy. (c. looks quietly from, the Sergeant, 
who with the Corporal stands to salute, to Pamela) 
What is this? 

Pi^MELA. (r. c.) The British Army has evidently 
wakened up. 

Sergeant, (l.) We are on the track of a rebel 
spy, Major, and Captain Dacier has ordered us to 
search the house. 

D'Arcy, I am very sorry, Miss Townsend, that 
vou have been subjected to this annoyance. {Drop- 
ing down L. c.) 

Pamela, (r. c.) Pray, Major D'Arcy, don't con- 
sider me in the matter. Yours would have been the 
annoyance. 

D'Arcy. (l. c.) Mine? 

Pamela. They were about to break into your 
chambers. 

D'Arcy. {To Sergeant) Is the door locked? 

Pamela, {^w&ot^a^t salutes. Looking at W kKCX 
steadily) It is locked. 

Sergeant. The lady said you would know why it 
was locked, sir, and that you had the key. 



lyARCY OF TPIE GUAEDS. 43 

D'Arcy. (Watching Pamela closely) Quite 
riolit, Sergeant. You may withdraw your men to 
the terrace. 

Sergeant. (Saluting l. u. e.) Yes, sir. (Turn- 
ing to D'Arcy) What 'shall I tell the Captain? 

D'Arcy. Tliat I should like to see him here. 

Sergeant. Yes, sir. (Gives command to the 
squad, and they exit through door at upper l. and 
they may be seen drawn up outside the windoiv. 
D'Arcy and Pamela stand quite still for a moment 
facing one another, then Pamela steps to him and 
hands him the key) 

P.AMELA. Thank you. 

D^Arcy. (Quietly taking key) He is there? 

Pamela. I swear to you he is not a spy. 

D'Arcy. You love him. 

Pamela, (r. c.) As my life. I throw myself 
on your generosity; appearances are against him, I 
know; he is disguised, but it was only his eagerness 
to get here. 

I)^4rcy. (l. c.) I can understand that. 

Pamela. (Eagerly) Don't give him up, don't 
gi^'e him up. He's young, too young to die, and they 
would hang him. Oh, God, can't you see it would 
break my heart ! Have pity ! 

D'Arcy. Miss Townsend, can you swear on your 
honor, that be is not within oiir lines to seek informa- 
tion? 

Pamela. I swear it. 

D'Arcy. (Looks her sicadihi in the eye and is 
ronvinced of her sincerity) I. exceed my authority, 
Miss Townsend, but I'll save him, if I can. 

Pamela. (Alnwsf hrealdng down) Heaven will 
1)1 ess 3'ou. 

D'Aiu Y. (iJently) The only reward I ask, is to 
see that light in your eyes. (Someone is heard at the 
door. PamvJjA goes up to fire-place) Ssh! Captain 
Dacier. (D'Arcy crosses to r. Captain Dacier 
enters, he is a young officer iriili supercilious manner) 



44 D^ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

Dacier. (c. Saluting D'Aecy, pays no attention 
to Pamela, save to look Tier over, does not remove 
his hat) Sergeant Tripp informed nie that you 
wished to see me. 

D'Arcy. (r. Dacier tales ojf his hat very un- 
graciously) The Sergeant tells me a rebel spy is in 
the house. 

Dacier. Yes, sir. 

D'Arcy. Have you found him? 

Dacier. No, sir. 

D'Arcy. (Severely) Why don't you? 

Dacier. (Loses his temper and is about to swear) 
How the • 



D'Arcy. Ahem ! 

Dacier. The Sergeant says you ordered him out. 

D'Arcy. There is no one here. At least I haven't 
looked behind the curtains or in the clock, or under 
the sofa. 

Dacier. Has that room been examined? (Point- 
ing to door upper R.) 

D'Arcy. There is nothing there but an empty hall. 

Dacier. Or that? (Pointing to door lower l.) 

D'Arcy. That's my room, and the door's locked. 
(Crossing to Dacier) Here's the key. 

Dacier. (l. c.) He must be somewhere. 

D'Arcy. (r. c.) Must be? 

Dacier. There is some mystery. 

D'Arcy. Clear it up. Captain, by all means, ha\e 
you looked in the well ? 

(WARN CURTAIN.) 

Dacier. The whole house has been looked over 
thoroughly, (l. c.) 

D'Arcy. (c.) Did you see him enter? 

Dacier. No. 

D'Arcy. Did anyone see him leave? 

Dacier. No. 

D'Arcy. (Severely) Then someone has blun- 
dered. Look into it. Captain Dacier. 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 45 

Dacier. {Starting to door r. u. e.) I shall re- 
port the whole affair to Headquarters. 

D'Arcy. They don't like mysteries at Head- 
quarters, Captain Dacier. 

Dacier. (Discomfited) Good morning, sir. 

D'Arcy. Good morning Captain. 

Daciee. (Aside) Curse his Irish impertinence! 

D'Arcy. You remarked Captain? 

Dacier. Good morning. (Exits stiffly l. u. e. 
Shortly re-appears outside the window, A sha/rp 
word of command is given and the Grenadiers tramp 
off. D'Arcy steps to the window) 

D'Arcy. They're gone. 

Pamela. You are his preserver. He must see you. 

D'Arcy. Spare me that. 

Pamela. I ask it as a favor. Give me the key. 
(She goes to the door L. 1 e., unlocks it, opens it 
and calls) Harry, Harry come out. It is safe. 
He has saved you. (A moment later Townsend 
enters. He looks in astonishment from D'Arcy" to 
Pamela) Major D'Arcy, may I present Captain 
Townsend? (Joyously, talcing his hand) He has 
saved you, Harry. 

D'Arcy. (Aside, under his breath r. c.) Harry! 

Townsend. (Crossing to him, putting out his 
hand, D^Arcy ignores it stiffly) Major D'Arcy 
accept mine as well as my sister's thanks. 

D'Arcy. (Looking at him coldly) Your sister! 
(Then as it breaks upon him suddenly, he faces 
Pamela, crosses to her) Miss Townsend, do you 
mean to tell me that it is your brother I have saved? 
(Crosses to her) 
Pamela, (l. puzzled) No other. 
D'x^rcy. ( With great effusiveness, beaming, turn- 
ing to him) Captain Townsend, it is a privilege to 
meet you, sir. 

CURTAIN. 



46 D'ARCY OF THE GUAKD8. 



ACT III. 

Scene: — Night of. the same day, about eight o'clock. 
The curtains are draivn across the ivindows and 
a number of candles are lit about the room. 
There are a number of pipes and a howl of 
tobacco on the table. 

DISCOVERED: — Gregory seated in arm-chair be- 
fore the fire, puffing away at a church-tvarden. 
Pamela enters from l. followed by Sambo ivith 
a huge punch-bowl which he places on the table. 

Pamela. Place it there, Sambo. 

Greg. (Rising and bowing) Good evening, Miss 
Townsend, what have we here? (Enthusiastically) 
A punch, as I^n alive ! 

Pamela. Have a care, doctor, a fish house-punch 
is supposed to be deadly. 

Greg. (Laughing) We'll take our chances, Miss 
Townsend. And very m,ucli thanks. (The metal 
knocl'er sounds off left) Ah, there's Jack. 

Pamela. Jack? 

Greg. Major D'Arcy. 

Pamela. (Confusedly) Oh — good night. 

Greg. Good night. (She exits at R. Gregory 
takes up a candle and goes out at l. The hnoching 
continues, then ceases) 

Sambo. American refreshments I'or British 
soldiers. Dar a mighty fine bowl of liquor going to 
waste. I'm glad my old massa never lived to see the 
day when his roof shelter a parcel of red coats. 
(Starts for l. 1 b.) American liquor for British 
soldiers — If I had my way about it I'd put rat 
pizin in it. (Crosses R. 1 e.. Sambo arranges glasses 
on table then exits at R.) 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 47 

(Gkecoky re-enters luith D'Arcy mho throws his 
cloak and hat on the chair R. of window, and 
places a large roll of maps on the table with 
two pistols which he draws from his poclcets. 
All the while talking with Gregory.) 

Greg. You're early, Jack. 

D'Arcy. No one here, yet? 

Grp:g. (Filling glasses ivith punch) The clock 
has just struck eight. 

D'Arcy. Good. I'm glad they're late. I want to 
talk to you, Greg. 

Greg. Fill a glass and talk away. 

D'Arcy\ (Pours out two glasses from the decanter, 
fills a /ripe and settles himself at the table as does 
GREGORY^ They raise their glasses in a toast) I'll 
give you a toast. To the fairest maid in all the 
world. 

Greg. With all my heart. Jack. The little rebel? 

D^Arcy. Egad, Greg. She's a royal rebel, 
(Drinks) and I adore her. She gave me her hand, 
Greg, to 

Greg. (8its l. of table — getting up in astonish- 
ment) She gave you her hand? Have you asked 
her to marry you already man? 

D'x\rcy. (Sitting r. of table) Of course I asked 
her, and she refused me with the air of the Duchess 
that she is. 

Greg. But you just said she gave you her hand. 

D'Arcy. Oh, you silly old Greg, that was long 
afterward, and she gave it to me to kiss. 

Greg. Little baggage! Jack, she's trifling with 
you. 

D'Arcy. That's the point, Greg. It's me she's 
trifling with, and no one else — mind that. 

Greg. What's become of tother fellow — ^the 
mysterious man of disguise. 

D'Arcy. Ah, he's a jewel, Greg. I could love 
him as a brother — if I had the chance. 



48 D'AKCY OF THE GUARDS. 

Greg. You saw him ? 

D'Arcy. I did indeed. 

Greg. Where? 

D'Arcy. Here. He spent most of the afternoon 
with his sweetheart, and at five o'clock, I gave him 
my company for three miles on his way back to the 
rebel camp. 

Greg. I give it up, Jack. You're either out of 
your head, or talking riddles. 

D'Arcy. If you'd not interrupt me every second, 
(^aptain Gregory, I could tell a straightforward tale, 
and a very pretty one it is. 

Greg. Go on, I'll not stop you. 

D'Arcy. I'll begin at the end. 

Greg. As usual. 

D'Arcy. Well, his sweetheart is not mine, Greg. 

Greg. I can readily believe that. 

D'Arcy. Oh, you stupid old Greg, you don't mean 
what I mean. 

Greg. What do I mean? 

D'Arcy. You mean that we ai-e both in love with 
the same girl, and so we are, but in a different way. 

Greg. (Hopelessly) And you compromised on 
that basis, did you, Jack? 

D'Arcy. Yes, I was perfectly satisfied with his 
way. He's her brother, Greg. 

Greg. Her brother! {Laughing) It is like one 
of Mr. Garrick's comedies. Jack. {Sitting L. of 
lahle) 

D'Arcy. It's better, it's real. 

Greg. But why did she give you her hand to kiss — 
if she wouldn't give it to you to keep? 

D'Arcy. You know not the ways of women, Greg. 
Your flinty heart has never been touched by ex- 
perience. 

Greg. Your experience with 'em seems to have 
been of much value to you, Jack. 

D'Arcy. Faith, Greg, every woiriau is a new ex- 
perience. 



D'ARCY OF THE GUAEDS. 49 

Greg. It's an un<?allant philosophy. (Rising) 

D'Arcy. Ah, philosophy has no manners at all, 
Greg. 

Greg. (Leans over and claps him on the shoulder) 
You deserve her. Jack, and may you win her. 

D'Arcy. She'll never have me as long as I wear a 
red coat. 

Greg. Well — get a bottle green one then, or any 
color that the wench wants. (Knock. Loud knock- 
ing off L.) Ah, there they are at last. (Takes up a 
candle) Ah, you should have taken advantage of 
the mistletoe, my boy. 

D'Arcy. . (Stiffly) An Irish gentleman does his 
kissing under the rose. 

Greg. (Laughing a^ he moves toward the door) 
Well, an Irish gentleman that I know will do his 
under difficulties. 

D'Arcy. Go on with j^ou. 

(Gregory exits, while D'Arcy looks over the table to 
see that everything is right. There is a hahhle 
of voices off L. A moment after. Colonel, Sir 
Edward Jbnnison and Dalrymple enter fol- 
loived soon after by Captains Farquhar, 
Dacier, Kelter and Gregory. The Colonel 
and Major Dalrymple come down front arid 
exchange salutes with D'Arcy. The others go 
up and assisted by Gregory, remove hats and 
cloaks — keeping up a rattle of conversation all 
the ivhile.) 

Jennison. (Saluting) How f 
are yovi, Major? < (Together) 

Dalrymple. Helloa, Jack. |^ 

D'Arcy. (Saluting) Good evening, Colonel. 
How are you, Dal? 

Jennison. T stopped in at headquarters for you, 
!)ut the General said you had gone. 

D'Arcy. Sorry to have missed yon, sir. (The 



50 D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

Col. and Dalrymple speak aside. D'Aecy greets 
the other officers cheerily) Helloa, Farquhar. 
(Faequhar goes down and speaks luith Col. and 
Dalrymple. De Courcey down l. by tahle. 
Gregory down to hack of table) Make yourself use- 
ful, Greg. Don't be making eyes at that punch-bowl 
just yet, De Courcey. Ah, Kelter, this is late for 
you to be out. (They turn toward the group of 
Officers, who are still in loud conversation. Dal- 
rymple throws aside hi>s cloak, but the Col. retains 
his) Come, gentlemen, pull up to the table and don't 
slight the bowl. 

Greg. ('Calls to Kelter) Come on over here, 
Kelter. 

(There ks* a general movement of pulling out chairs,, 
filling churcli-tvardens, and the group sit, fill 
pipes, light them, and bloiv out a cloud of 
smoke.) 

Jennison. Gentlemen, I know that you all have 
a very -pardonable curiosity concerning the enterprises 
that is on foot, and I have orders here that will not 
only satisfy your curiosity but gratify your pride. 
(Takes a packet of papers from his pocket) 

Dal. That's good. Sir Edward, we've been 
mortifying our pride long enough. 

Jenistison. You're right. Major. The Com- 
mander-in-chief has thought secrecy of the utmost 
importance in this instance, and to that purpose these 
instructions have not been given to regimental com- 
manders till this evening. 

Far. (d. c.) When do we move, sir? 

Jenxison. (Taking out his ivatch) It is now 
half after eight. (Reads from- the orders spi'cad out 
on the table) " The advance, composed of both 
regiments of the Guards, and the brigade of Hessians 
is to move at eleven o'clock." 

Par. To-morrow, sir? 



D'AECY OF THE OUAT^DS. 51 

Jennison. (Frouming) To-day, to-night, sir. 
You will have but an hour or so for — ^preparation. 
As you will see by the maps here, gentlemen — {They 
all crouyd — lean toward the maps) — the enemy's posi- 
tion is a strong one. 

Dacier. We'll sweep 'em off their feet. 

D'Arcy. (Laughing) You talk as if the Guards 
were armed with brooms, Dacier. 

Dacier. The bayonet is a Grenadier's broom. 

Jennison. The attack begins from this side with 
us. (Points to the map) The Hessians move to the 
left, and the Highlanders and 80th. take ih^ center. 
The cavalry division will follow closely and finish the 
business. 

(The Colonel and Dalrymple examine the maps 
closely.) 

Far. (Aside) If we're not finished by that time. 

Dacier. They are nothing but a disorganized 
rabble, and if we hem 'em so they can't run, they'll 
tlirow down iheir arms at once. 

Grkg. Or drown like rats in the river. 

D'Arcy. That's what they should do, Greg, but 
they won't. They are sadly lacking in the knowledge 
of tactics, and don't know how to retreat, and as for 
their manual of arms, it gives 'cm no information on 
subject of tlirowing 'em down. 

Dacier. Tlio rcl)ol rnscals don't seem to begin to 
light till they're beaten. 

Jenxjsox. (Looking up) Who said beaten? 

Dacier. 1 was saying. Colonel, that the rascals 
never knew when they were beaten. 

Jennlsox. Oh, the beggars, can figlit. And they'll 
have to to-morrow morning. 

Dal. If everything goes riglit. it will end the war. 

Jexxisox. Everything must go right. This is the 
n;ost important move we've made. There is no pos- 
sible wa^' in whicli oui- plans can have leaked out, and 



52 D^ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

they'll be totally unprepared, we'll catch 'em napping 
and rout 'em to the last man. 

Dal. They've only a handful of men fit for 
service, anyhow. 

Greg. That fox, Washington, seems to do most 
damage, when he has only a band of disabled men. 
Remember Trenton and Princeton. 

D'Aecy. Oh, let's forget 'em for the credit of the 
British Army, eh, Colonel? 

Jennison. Yes, it's like a bad dream. 

Far. To-morrow will retrieve all that and wipe 
the score clean. 

Dacier. We'll bring this Mr. Washington and his 
French side, the Marquis de Lafayette back to 
Philadelphia with us. 

Dal. I wonder if froggy is really a Marquis? ' 

D'Arcy. He's a beautiful Marquis, Dal, and a very 
charming gentleman, I knew him in Paris when he 
was only a lad. 

Jennison. And now I think there is nothing more 
to be said. We'll meet again before many hours. 
(Puts papers in his cloaJc pochet) 

D'Aecy. But who knows when or where we'll meet 
again after that ? 

Greg. Oh, none of your melancholy. (€ries of 
''No! Nol") 

Jennison. (Rising) And now I must bid you 
good night, gentlemen. 

D'Arcy. Oh, Sir Edward, sit you down and give 
us a toast. (Several of the officers playfully press the 
Colonel back on chair r. of window by Jennison 
a7id Dalrymple takes his cloak and puts it on the 
lounge at back) Drink and be merry for to-morrow 
we 

Jennison. (Laughingly interrupts him) Jack, 
Jack, that's worse. 

All. x\ toast, a toast, Sir Edward. 

(They all fill their glasses and stand.) 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 53 

Jennison. (All officers place left foot on chairs) 
Gentlemen? Are you charged? I give you King 
George. God bless him and his fighting men. 

All. (C licking glasses) King George God bless 
him and his fighting men. 

Jennison. And may they always support one an- 
other. 

All. Forever. 

{All rise and stand on chah' placing right foot on 
table holding glasses very high,' drink and step 
down from table. They lift Jennison to the 
table and then shout — "'For he's a jolly good 
fellow/' " He's a jolly good fellow — ■" when he 
has resumed his seat again.) 

D'Arcy. Come now, Dal, a song. 
All. Yes, yes, a song. 
Far. What shall it be? 

D'Arcy. That song about ''Let the toast pass, 
etc.^' 

Greg. Yes, that's the one. 

Dal. All right. Now everybody join in. 

(They all fill their pipes. Farquhar shigs " Sally in 
Ow\ Ally " tJie others join riotously in the 
choriis.) 

Kelter. I can come in strong on the chorus. 

All. All right, old man. 

D'Arcy. Now you start us Dal and we'll come in. 

(Dalrymple starts too high, all groan, then starts 
alone. All join in.) 

Jennison. (At conclusion of song, gets to his 
feet) Come, gentlemen, time is slipping. We must 
be on the move. 



54 D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

(There is a general movement of pushing haclc chairs, 
and preparations made for departure. 'Cloalc and 
hats donned, amid a buzz of talk and laughter, 
the Colonel hy mistake takes D'Aecy's cloak 
leaving his own behind.) 

D'Arcy. I'll liofht yon to the gate, Colonel. 

(As they put on cloaks.) 

Jennison. Don't you ride with us ? 
D'Arcy. Greg and I will meet you at headquarters 
in half an hour. 
Jennison. Good. 

(They all file out. D'Arcy bringing up the rear.) 

Greg. (With a candle) I'll be ready in ten 
minutes, Jack. 

D'Arcy. You'll find me here. (Exits l. 3 witli 
candle. Gregory exits d. 1. There is a faint sound 
of voices outside and snatches of '' Sally in Our 
Alley'' may be heard) 

(A moment after they have passed out, Sambo enters. 
He looks about the room,, sees the Colonel's 
cloak, picks it up carelessly and moves over to 
hang it up Tu. 1 F..) 

Sambo. Those officers certainly are a careless lot, 
leaving their cloaks and things behind 'em on a night 
like this. (Stops at door upper R. and calls) Miss 
Pamela — Oh, Miss Pamela. 

Pa:mela. (Of R.) Yes. Sambo. 

(MUSIC READY.) 

SAiAiBO. They're all gone. (Sambo hangs up the 
hat and cloak. As the cloak unfolds itself, he sees the 
ImndU of papers slicking from the pocket. He looks 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 55 

at it rt-s' // he'd like to take it, and Pamela entenng 
at that moment, lie snatches it quickly) 

Pamela. Phew ! What a smoke, Sambo ! (She 
goes to luindow and raises it. Sambo steps ([uietly 
over to tahle at her hack and throws the papers down. 
BuMjing herse-lf about, snuffing candles) No glasses, 
broken, Sambo. 

Sambo. No, Miss Pamela, but the punch is 
spoiled. 

Pamela. Spoiled f 

(MUSIC.) 

Sambo. lt*s all gone. 

Pamela. {€omes to the table, laughing) Take 
these glasses to the pantry. (Picks up the papers) 
Wliat arc there? 

Sambo. T think some of tliose officer gentlemen 
dropped 'em. 

Pamela. (Giving them to Sambo) Oh, gv^Q 
them to Major D'Arcy in the morning. 

Sambo. (Taking them reluctantly, and moving 
away, crosses ii., then coining hack) Hadn't you 
better look at 'em Miss Pamela? 

Pamela. Read them? Certainly not. 

Sambo. Do read 'em! I could swear those red 
jackets was liere for no good, to-night. (He unfolds 
the papers) Mischief is certainly a brewin'. (Holds 
the papers in front of her, so that she- can't help seeing 
I heir purport) 

Pamela. (In a scared voice) Plans of the Ameri- 
caii fortifications at Valley Forge ! Order of attack 
on Valley Forge ! ! Sambo ! It's a plot. (She 
snatches the papers from him and leans with them 
toward the light on the tahle. She reads out hur- 
riedly) Order of attack on Valley Forge. The 
advance composed of both regiments of the Guards, 
and the brigade of Hessians is to move at eleven 
o'clock. 

Sambo. When ? 



56 D^ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

Pamela. It is dated Headquarters, December 
29th. 

Sambo. That's to-day. 

Pamela. They intend to attack to-night. It's a 
surprise. 

Sambo. What's to be done, Miss Pamela ? 

Pamela. Let me think — Let me think — They 
must have word — they must — they must. Quick 
Sambo ! Go to the stables and saddle Bess. 

Sambo. What will you do? 

Pamela. I'll warn them. 

Sambo. You would never get through. 

Pamela. I will get through. I know every inch 
of the road and can make it in two hours — three at 
the most. If they are not warned they will be de- 
stroyed ! Quick now ! There is not a moment to 
spare. 

(Sambo exits hurriedly at R. She looks at the papers 
again for an instant, then throws them on the 
table. Sees the hat and cloak hanging, takes 
them, throivs the cloak ah out her and puts on the 
hat before the mirror. D'Arcy re-enters from l. 
3. He carries the candle high in his hand, and 
draws his hand amazedly across his face on see- 
ing Pamela, as if to wipe a vision from his eyes. 
She hears him and looks up startled. He stands 
sim in astonishment.) 

Pamela. Major D'Arcy ! 

D'Arcy. Miss Townsend ! 1 thought it was some 
lovely ghost. 

Pamela. I was never more in the flesh than I am 
at this moment. 

D'Arcy. (Puts candle on tahle, noticing his cloak 
and hat on her) Are you for a masquerade to-night. 
Miss Townsend? 

Pamela. I am, and for a ride. 

D'Arcy. And may I accompany you ? 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 57 

Pamela. Thank you, Major D'Arcy, but I must 
ride alone. 

D'Arcy. (Realizing her purpose, and mechanically 
talcing the papers from the table) I am afraid I 
cannot permit you to leave this room alone to-night; 
not for several liours at least. (Crosses r. tuith papers 
in his hand) 

Pamela. (Haughtily) Do you mean that you 
would dare to use force to restrain me? 

D'Arcy. I should feel extremely mortified if Miss 
Townsend pushed me to that extremity. 

Pamela. Which means that you would ? 

D'Arcy. Forgive me, Miss Townsend if I \n-ong 
you with my suspicions but I fear you have informa- 
tion of the utmost importance to the enemy, which is 
my duty to prevent coming into their possession. 

Pamela. You would keep me here on a mere sus- 
picion ? Let me pass ! 

D'Arcy.' I can't! 

Pamela. The boasted chivalry of the Irish gentle- 
man and the British officer fades away when put to 
the trial. 

D'Arcy. The Irish Gentleman and the British 
officer finds himself in a most odious position Miss 
Townsend. Relieve me from it, I beg of you; just 
tell me it's not so. 

Pamela. I deny your authority to question me. 
Major D'Arcy. Let me go. 

D'Arcy. I can't. 

Pamela. But why — the papers are in your posses- 
sion. 

D'Arcy. The papers? 

Pamela. The plans for the attack on Valley 
Forge? (She sees from his startled look that she has 
committed herself irrevocably, they look tensely at 
one another, then she swings around to supplication) 
Oh, help me! Help me! Can't you see what it 
means? Friends and country — all that I liold dear 
in the world. 



58 D^ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

D'Arcy. All that you hold dear in the world — ah, 
yes, yes, I know — ^but think what it means for me. 
You put me to a cruel test. Miss Townsend. If my 
love for you was one whit less true or honest, Fd 
bid you go and claim the reward of my dishonor 

Pamela. Are love and honor then so far apart? 
N"© one need ever know ? Oh, let me go, let me go. 

D'Arcy. On one condition ! 

Pamela. And that is 

D'Arcy. Give me your word that you will not 
leave this house to-night or communicate to anyone 
the information which you have — and I'll let you go. 

(Sambo appears at the door R. muffled and with a 
lantern. Pamela sees him and the sight of him 
gives her resolution.) 

Pamela. No, no. (Draiving the pistol from under 
her cloak) And Major D'Arcy you will prevent my 
passing at your peril. 

D'Arcy. (Steadily) I would prefer it so! 

Pamela. I warn you ! 

D'Arcy. You cannot leave the room ! 

(Pamela fires, D'Arcy stumbles forward into chair — 
Sambo rushes forward to her as she shri7i]cs haclc 
dazed.) 

Sambo. My Gawd, Miss Pamela you have killed 
him surely ! Quick the horse is ready — you must go ! 
Go! 

Pamela. (Wildly) No, no, I can't — I can't. 

Sambo. It will be sartin death. Now if you stay 
here now they'll kill you sure. 

Pamela. No matter Sambo, I can't. I can't go. 
Take Bess, ride to A^alley Forge, you must save them, 
you must save Master Harry. Ride Sambo, for your 
life. (He crits hurriedly at R. Pamela goes quichly 
to D'Arcy's side) Major D'Arcy, Jack — spealv to 
me — speak ! 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 59 

D'Arcy. (Slowly coming to Jdmself) Ah, thank 
Ilea veil you are liere Miss Townsend. (Gets shakily 
to his feet) 

Pamela. {Pitifully) Oh, what have I done! 
What have I done ! Can you forgive me ? 

D'AiicY. {Holding the ivounded arm with the 
other hand and trying to conceal his pain) Forgive 
you, Miss Townsend — ah, it's nothing — nothing. 
All's fair in love and war. 

{There is sound of loud knocking off l. 3 and 
Gregory calls from l. i e.) 

Greg. Jack! Jack! Are you ready? 

( D'Arcy harnedly pulls off his sash.) 

D'Arcy. {He stands) Might I bother you to 
help me Miss Townsend ! No one must see this. 
{She hurriedly binds up his arm. The knocking 
continues. Gregory's voice sounds closer, calling) 

Greg. Jack ! Jack ! 

Pamkla. {Hurriedly ivorkvng at his arm) Oh, 
do 1 hurt you ! 

D'Arcy. No, no, it's delicious. But you must 
not be found here. Miss Townsend, with me in this 
condition. We could never explain. Go now, go! 
Give me your cloak! {He takes the cloak she has 
on, and swings it over his shoulders, she moves un- 
steadily toward door upper R. when at that ynoment 
Gregory enters at lower r. 1 she slips quickly he- 
hind curtains out R. 1 e. leaves door open, window 
at hack R. unobserved by Gregory. D'Arcy manages 
to take the papers out of his belt and back into the 
pocket of his cape as Gregory comes toward him. 
The knocking is now out side door at L.) 

Greg. Why the devil didn't you answer? I 
thought I heard a shot. 

D'Arcy. {Steadying himself at the table) You 



60 D'ARCY OF THE GUAEDS. 

heard that knocking outside, let the beggar in who- 
ever it is. 

(Gregory exits at l. and re-enters iviili Dalrymplb 
who had D'Arcy's cloak.) 

Greg. Oh, it's you Dal. 

(They move toward D'Arcy.) 

Dal. By some mistake. Jack, the Colonel took 
your cloak, and in the pocket of his own he left im- 
portant papers. Have you seen them? 

D'Arcy. (Looking down at the cloak he has on) 
Why then this must be the Colonel's cloak. (Pulls 
out the papers) And here are the papers safe and 
sound. 

Dal. (Taking them) I'm glad of that — ^he'll 
be relieved to get them back. Gentlemen, I'm for 
headquarters, do you ride with me ? 

Greg. I'm ready. Come along, Jack. (D'Arcy 
leans heavily against the tahle) Why, what's the 
matter with you? 

D'Arcy. (Pullhig hhnself together and forcing a 
laugh) Nothing — nothing — I'm afraid the enter- 
tainment to-night was too much for me. Go on, 
boys, I'll follow. 

(Gregory and Dalrymple pass out at l. 3 talking. 
Pamela comes quickly forward from behind 
curtain — fear and distress filling her.) 

(MUSIC.) 

Pamela. Major D'Arcy ! You cannot go in your 
condition — it would mean death. I couldn't bear 
that — I couldn't. 

D'Arcy. Ah, Miss Townsend, it is but a touch, 
many a lad will think himself lucky this night if he 
gets off with as little. And your safety hangs on my 
going. 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 61 

Pamela. Major D'Arcy ! You cannot go, it 
Mould be madness — madness. 

D'zVrcy. Miss Townsend it would be madness to 
stay — God knows I can explain almost anything 
but — (Pointing to his arm) I could never explain 
this. Your safety hangs on it. 

Pamela. I would willingly pay the price of 
safety, if you will stay — what would safety mean to 
me if your death lay at my door! Oh, my God, I 
(■ouldn't bear that. You must stay — you must! 

D'Arcy. (<Co?m7ig very close to her) Don't 
worry Miss Townsend — it is but a touch — once in the 
saddle and it will be forgotten. And if— if Miss 
Townsend — I should not come back, may I hold the 
precious thought that one red coat lies gently in your 
thoughts? I know the weeks and months of my 
preseiice here have been hateful to you but they've 
been blessed days and the memory of them — which 
may be mine but a few hours longer — is radiant. 
And should I fall to-nio-ht, remember that though 
my life belonged to my King, my heart and soul 
were yours. Good-bye — Good-bye ! ' (She stands with 
head bowed — frozen, he gently takes her hand to his 
lips, then exits hurriedly. Pamela raises her head 
slowly, her face haggard with despair, and she flings 
herself info a chair and buries her face in her hwnd^ 
on the table, sobbing) 

CURTAIN. 



62 D^ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 



ACT IV. 

Scene : — Billiard room of the Townsend House. 

DISCOVERED :— .4 f rise, Gregory and Dal- 
KYMPLE at the hilHard table. Greoory stand.'^ 
chalking his cue, Dalrymple is just making 
a shot. 

Greg. {Sitting l. of table) I tell you, Major, 
it is absolutely unnecessary to place Miss Townsend 
and her family under arrest. 

Dal. (r. of table, leaning on chair) T think so 
myself, Doctor, and have told the Colonel so; but 
he seems to think the rumors that are going about 
the town Justify it. 

Greg. (Fussily) Rumors! Rumors be damned. 
It's nothing but the tattle of the officers' mess. Jack 
D'Arcy would stop their mouths if he heard of it. 

Dal. I feel just as you do about the matter, 
Gregory; but tattle or no tattle it has got to be 
stopped before it spreads — (Crosses r. c.) or God 
save our reputations. The information of our 
intended attack on the rebels certainly leaked out 
somewhere, or they never would have repulsed us as 
they did. 

Greg. (Rises — sarcastically) I suppose they say 
.Tack D'Arcy warned them- — or perhaps they think it 
was I. 

Dal. (Laughing) Oh, hardly that — but 

Greg. (C7rosW /o Dalrymple) But what? 

Dal. ('Comes close to Gregory) Well, they are 
certainly circumstances to be explained. Why, there 
are hints of a spy having taken refuge here in the 
house that verv same afternoon. 



D^ARCY OF THE GUAEDS. 63 

Greg. Oh, Pudge! On such a suspicion as that 
I think it would be an outrage to put Miss Townsend 
to the inconvenience and humiliation of arrest. She 
has been at Jack D'Arcy's bedside day and night 
these last five weeks, and if Colonel Jennision and 
my Tjord Cornwallis value a gallant officer, they owe 
his life to her. 

Dal. (Surprised) She has nursed him? 

Greg. I could not have done without her. 

Dal. How is he to-day? 

Greg. Getting about. The sea voyage home will 
^ct him up, I think. (Pamela and Townsend 
enter from l. u. e. Gregory and Dalrymple hreaJc 
off in their conversation and Gregory steps towards 
them) Ah, Miss Townsend. 

Pamela. Doctor, I want you to know my brother, 
Captain Townsend. 

(Gregory crosses to Harry. Dalrymple goes vp. 
Pamela crosses r.) 

Greg. (Putting out his hand cordially, they meet 
L. c.) It is a very great pleasure. Captain Townsend. 

Towns. (Taking his hand) The pleasure, sir, is 
mine, for it gives me the opportunity to thank you, 
for the many kindnesses to my family. 

Greg, (c.) Ah, say nothing of that. (Turns to 
Dalrymple mho conies down) May I present you 
to Major Dalrymple? 

(Townsend and Dalrymple how.) 

Towns, (l. c. with a smile) I have no doubt 
Major Dalrymple will like to see my credentials! 
(Draws a paper from his top-coat pochet) Here is 
a safe conduct pass for the exchange of prisoners. 

Dal. (r. c. Politely, raising his hand) My dear, 
sir. 

Greg, (c.) Well, Captain, you gave us a warm 
welcome on our last visit to Yalley Forge. 



64 D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

Towns, (l. c.) We did our best, considering that 
your arrival was something of a surprise. 

Dal. (r. c. to Pamela r.) I am glad to have 
such good news of your patient this morning, Miss 
Townsend. 

Pamela, (r.) We are glad to have such good 
news to give. Major Dalrymple. 

Dal. Do you think I might see him ? 

Pamela. Why, yes, if you'll promise not to excite 
him. 

Greg. (c.) I'll accompany him to guard 
against that. Good morning, Captain Townsend. 

Towns. {Bowing to Gregory and Dalrymple 
(vho move up L.) Good morning, sir, good morning. 
('Crossing R. to Pamela) 

Greg. (Aside to Dalrymple as they go l. to 
D'Arcy's chamber) Mind you break it gently to him 
about Miss Townsend's arrest. He is by no means 
a well man, and there will be the devil to pay when 
he hears it. 

(As they reach the door it opens and Sambo appears. 
He holds it open for them and they exit L. u. E. 
Then he turns and sees Townsend below.) 

Sambo, (l. c. Hurrying down to him) For the 
Lord's sake ! It's Massa Harry ! 

Towns, (c. Takes his hand cordially) Why 
Sambo, you old rascal! (Turning to Pamela, r.) 
Pamela, did you know it was he saved us that night ? 

Pamela. Yes, I knew. 

Sambo. (Scared — looking about fearfully) Ssh ! 
Xot so loud ! They'd put a noose about my neck for 
sure, if they knew that. 

Towns. Tell me; how did you find out, and how 
did you manage to get through ? 

Sambo, (l. c.) Well, Massa Harry, Miss Pamela 
and I jes' smelled mischief that night, and we smelt 
right! And as she was too busily engaged with that 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 65 

Irish gentleman, Major D'Arcy, when I had the horse 
ready, why I jes^ concluded I'd take charge of the 
information myself. 

ToAvxs. {To Pamela) Busily engaged with 
Major D'Arcv, Pamela? 

Pamela. (Sits on sofa ii. Painfully flurried) 
Oh, nothing, nothing. Major D'Arcy found out that 
I knew of their plans, but he didn't know that Sambo 
knew. 

Towns. The devil you say! But I don't under- 
stand how you got bv their pickets. 

Sambo. I didn't go by 'em, Massa Harry, I jes' 
go through 'em, and rode for dear life. And you 
know I got there in time. 

Towns. (Clapping him on the shoulder) Yes, 
thank God, for if you hadn't, they would have routed 
us to the last man. You and General Washington 
saved the day. 

Sambo. (Grinning) Yes, me and General Wash- 
ington. 

Pamela. (Rises to Harry, urging him to go) 
Run along now, Harry, to mother and Cynthia; I'll 
be with you in a moment. I wish to speak to the 
doctor. 

Towns. Very well, Sis. Come, Sambo I 

(They move to door at n. and exit n. 2 e. Gregory 
appears at top of steps L. and comes down to 
Pamela.) 

Pamela, (r. c.) And how do you think our 
patient is this morning? 

Greg, (l, c.) As well as could be expected. 

Pamela. Is that not very well ? 

Greg. He's getting restless — and begins to rebel 
against authority. But the voyage liome will do him 
good. 

Pamela. He — he is going back to England? 

Gre(!. (Looking ai her sharply) The moment T 
think ho is able. 



66 D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

Pamela. (Rather hlanhly) Oh! 

Greg. He's frettins^ his heart out about something, 
and I have no probes that go deep enoiigh for that. 
(He looks at her shreivdly and she turns partly away 

Pamela. (Tatting a smaH miniature from tier 
pocl-et) Doctor, here is somethino- Sambo picked up 
about the house somewhere. Does it belono- to you? 

Greg. (Talcing it in his hand and looking at it) 
A miniature! No, not mine. I think it belongs to 
Jack D'Arc3^ I heard him say that he had lost or 
mislaid one. 

Pamela. Oh, he will be glad to have it again, 
then ; it — it is probably some one — very dear to him ; 
his sister, perhaps? 

Greg. (Quizzically) Yes — exactly — but now I 
think of it, he hasn't any sister, Miss Townsend. 

Pamela. He has no sister? Perhaps a cousin 
then? 

Greg. (Turning the miniature over and reading 
on the hack of it) " To Jack with much affection " — 
perhaps it is. He has some distant cousins. 

Pamela. (Aside — rather helplessly) T don't call 
that very distant. 

Greg. Pardon me — you were saying? 

Pamela. I was saying that when Major D'Arcy 
returned to England his cousin would not be so dis- 
tant. 

Greg. (Laughing out) Quite so, quite so, Miss 
Townsend. (Handing her the miniature ivhich she 
takes mechanically) You can hand it to him when 
you see him. 

Pamela. (Not having intended to take it) Oh, 
no, I should rather you gave it to him ? 

Greg. Believe me, Miss Townsend. once in my 
pocket, I should never think of it again ; it is safer 
with you. (Jocosely) Give it to him with his next 
dose of medicine; it will make it taste better. 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 67 

Pamela. (Mechanically) I will see that he getK 
it ; I must go for his medicine now. 

Greg. (Going r.) Ah, Miss Townsend, what 
would we do without you? 

Pamela. It is nothing— nothing that I do. (She 
(joes out hastily at r. 2 E.) 

Greg. (Looks after her for a moment — laughing 
(o himself) There's only one medicine that will do 
Jack D'Arcy any good. 

{Enter D^^rcy and Dalrymple from door at top of 
steps, l. 2 e. and come down — D'Arcy carries 
his arm in a huge silken sling and shotvs the 
effect of his long confinement. His annoyance 
with the interview of Dalrymple shoivs plainly.) 

D'Arcy. Convey my compliments to the Colonel. 
Dalrymple, and tell him I am quite at his service. 

Dal. (l.) I'll go direct to Headquarters. We'll 
he here in a quarter of an hour. 

D'Arcy. (c.) I trust you will inform him what 
I've said about the arrest of Miss Townsend. I can 
convince him in a minute that it would be the grossest 
indignity. 

Dal. I'll tell him, Jack. Meanwhile don't blame 
me for leaving a Corporal and guard about the house. 
D'Arcy. (Sarcastically) As you please. Greg 
and I might escape otherwise. (Dalrymple laughs 
and exits at l. 2 e. D'Arcy steps over to Gregory) 
Well, here's a pretty mess. 

Greg, (r.) Just because you choose to bo polite 
to Miss Towosend's brother. 

D'Arcy. (c. Impatiently) \ coukin't see 'em 
string the lad up. 

Greg. Well, no one knows what happened that 
night but yours<^df, and you'll be very foolish to let 
anyone know more than you want them to know. 

D'Arcy. Faith it's pearls of wisdom vou're scatter- 
ing before me, Greg. 



68 D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

Greg. Don't be piggish and ignore them, then. 

D'Arcy. I must save her. 

Greg. Keep your wits about you, man ! She'll 
be the mother of little Davids yet. 

D'Arcy. Are you mocking me, Greg, or are you 
mad? 

Greg. Neither, may it please your worship. 

D'Arcy. I thought you'd had more sense than to 
have imagined such a thing. 

Greg. Whv, has the young person been fluttering 
about you for the past month, if she hasn't designs 
on you? 

D'Arcy. (Bitterly) It's a pity, Greg, pity. 
(Stiffly) And please don't speak of her to me as a 
young person. 

Greg. (Smiling) I beg her pardon and yours. 
And what is it they say pity is akin to ? 

D'Arcy. (Almost breaking doivii) Don't, Greg, 
don't ! I can't bear it. Don't you see it's breaking 
my heart, man. She gives me pity and tenderness 
as she'd give it to the child, or some other broken 
worthless thing, such as I. But her love ! She'll 
keep that for a man ; a man that can guard and 
shield her with his good right arm. 

Greg. God forbid. Jack, that I should even think 
the calumny you breathe against her. 

D'Arcy. It is no calumny. Do you think any 
blame attaches to her? Do you think that I snivel 
because, angel that she is, she doesn't see fit to fall in 
love with a piece of a man ? 

Greg. I think you're working yourself up into a 
pretty harmful state of excitement, that's what I 
think. Sit down ! 

D'Arcy. Curse it, Greg, would you have me take 
it like a stone image. Next week I sail for England : 
and what has life for me there? It'll be like ashes in 
my mouth. 

Greg. See here. Jack, what is the use of ruining 
your happiness for the sake of an idea? 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 69 

D'Arcy. Don't talk like a philosophical treatise. 
What do yon. mean ? 

Greg. I mean that your beastly pride has choked 
tlie common sense out of you. Give the ^irl a chance. 

D'Arcy. Would you have me crawl to her like a 
(•ri]>p]ed beire'ar, and try to work on her sympathies? 

Greg. Perhaps your potential lordship would 
]>rcfer to have the ladv make the advances? 

D'Arcy^ Gre^, you'll drive me mad with your 
folly. What have I to give her ! How on earth 
could I dare to hope to make her happy? I'm a 
V. reck of a man and no fit mate for her likes. 

Greg. Nonsense, you'll be as strong as ever you 
were in a month. And as for what you have to give 
her, a pretty estate, an old name, are not to be 
sniffed at, even by a little American rebel. There 
is many a London dame that would jump at the 
chance of being my Lady D'Arcy. 

D'Arcy. I can't agree with you, Greg, but what 
you suggest is impossible. You don't understand 
women as I do, old man, and there is no use of talk- 
ing about it further. 

Greg. (Resignedly) As you please, Jack. And 
I'm thinking the diet of ashes you spoke of hav- 
ing when you get home, will do you good. 

(SOLDIERS READY.) 

(The tramp of feet ?> heard off l., and a Sergeant 
tvith a file of Grenadiers enter arch l.) 

D'Arcy. (Angrily) Sergeant, what the devil is 
this? 

Sergeant. (Very apologetic on seeing Gregory 
and D'Arcy, hut salute stiffly) xVn arrest, sir. 

Greg. An arrest? 

D'Arcy. Arrest of whom? 

Serg. (Takes papers from his coat and hands it 
to D'Arcy) An order for the arrest of Miss 
Pamela Townsend. 



70 D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

D^Arcy. (Opens paper and glances through it, 
frowning heavily. With a quick glance at Gregory) 
Very well, Serjeant! I will take charge of tins. 
Remove your men to the garden! The examination 
of the prisoner will take place here. (Crosses l. 
Sergeant salutes, gives ivord of command and exits 
with the file at L. 2 e.) 

Greg. (Up a hit) We mnst tell her. 

D'Arcy. (BlanUy) Tell her what? 

Greg. (Smiling) That the way of the trans- 
gressor is hard. 

(They are interrupted hy the entrance of Pamela 
from R. and there is an emljarrassing pause.) 

Pamela. (Looking from one to the other) Do 
1 intrude, Doctor — Major D'Arcy? 

D'Arcy. Intrusion is a mild word you use, Miss 
Townsend; we wish you were a thousand miles from 
where you are. 

Greg. Indeed we do. (Up a hit) 

Pamela. (Wonderingly) What is it? 

D'Arcy. I have an order here for your arrest. 
Miss Townsend 

Pamela. (grosses to c. Shocked) For my 
arrest, Major D^Arcy? 

(VOICES READY.) 

D'Arcy. (Apologetically) Yes, and the Colonel 
\vi]l be here shortly to conduct the examination. 

Pamela. (Appealingly) What am I to do? 

D'Arcy. Put yourself in our hands, Miss Town- 
send, and say as little as possible. 

Pamela, (c. DeterminedJy) 1 cannot lie. 

D'Arcy. (l. c.) Couldn't you try, Miss Town- 
send? I could teach you how if I had the time. 

Greg. (r. c.) There is such a thing as polite 
evasion, Miss Townsend, which sometimes answers 
every purpose. 



D'AI7CY OF THE GUARDS. 71 

D'Arcy. (Confidentially) All you have to do is 
to tell the truth, nothing but the truth— and yet 
not necessarily the whole truth. 

(VOICES HEARD.) 

Greg, (r.) They're coming now! 

D'Arcy. (Quickly) Be careful what you say; 
commit yourself to nothing. (She moves hack to 
alcove at upper r. and stands unobserved as Colonel 
Jennison, Major Dalrymplb, Captain Farquhar, 
Dacier and Kelter enter. D'Arcy steps to 
Jennlson who cordially grasps his hands) Wel- 
come to you, Sir Edward. The sight of you would 
do a blind man good. 

Jennison. Well, Jack, it is good to see you on 
your feet 

D'Arcy. (Laughing, pointing to his arm in 
sling) Ah, Colonel, it's lucky I don't have to walk 
on my hands; if T did you'd never see me on my 
legs again. 

Col. (Laughing heartily, the others joining) 
When were you hit that night. Jack? 

(All listen.) 

D'Arcy. (A tnfle confused) Hit? I?— Oh, 
sir, I was hit when I least expected it. 

Col. (Shaking his head tvisely) Ah, you can 
never tell about those things. 

D'Arcy. (Volubly) Xever, never. Sir Edward; 
sure I was never more surprised in my life. 

Col. (Facetiously) I believe you were half shot 
before you left the house that night. 

D'Arcy. (Smiling) There's more truth than 
jest in that, Colonel. (Circle up r. Introduces 
Pamela) Allow me to present you, Colonel. Miss 
Townsend, Colonel, Sir Edward Jennison. 

(77/^' (\)L()NEL hoirs and Pamela courtesies.) 



72 D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

Col. (l. c. Gregory, r. A little mystified) 
But this is not the Miss Townsend, Jack, the 
prisoner? 

D'Arcy. (r. c.) Yes, sir; but I don't think it 
necessary to put her in irons. 

Col. {Puzzled — froivning) Do you mean to say 
this is the Miss Townsend about whom I heard sucl) 
dreadful things? 

D'Arcy. I know of nothing more dreadful, Sir 
Edward, than the fact that she has been at my 
bedside night and day for the past five weeks — ever 
since ray accident. 

Col. (Surprised) Bless my soul. Jack; am I to 
understand the prisoner has been nursing you? 

Greg, I should have been of little service with- 
out her, Colonel. 

Col. But is it so, Miss Townsend, that you are a 
rebel sympathizer? 

Pamela, (c.) I am not only a rebel sympathizer, 
sir; but I am a rebel. 

(Gregory and D'Arcy look at one another in con- 
sternation. Colonel Jennison is a hit em- 
barrassed.) 

Col. And were you at home on the evening of 
December 39th? 

Pamela. I was. 

Col. AwA who were the other inmates of tlie 
liouse that night? 

Pamela. Mostly British othcers. 

Col. (l. c.) And besides — ? 

Pamela, (c.) My mother and cousin. 

Colonel. Had you or they any knowledge of 
tlie purpose of the meeting that night? 

Pamela. N^one. 

(^olonel. Would you be willing to swear to that ? 

Pamela. Yes. 

D'Aroy. (k. v.) It is only fair to Miss Town- 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 73 

send sir, for me to say that the papers which you 
lelt behind you were out of my sight only the few 
minutes during which I was lighting you out 
^^^^^'(^iepping forward l.) Yes, Colonel, 
Mayor D Arcy found them in the pocket of your 
cloak, just where you had placed them, and handed 
them to me. 

Col. (Evidently imp-essed) Ah, I was not 
aware of that. Would you be willing to swear Miss 
Townsend that you overheard nothing that took 
place in this room on the occasion of the meeting? 

Pamela. (After a moment's hesitation) No 
(Her reply causes D'Arcy and Gregory to look at 
her anxiously. The Colonel looks at her steadily) 

Col. (Impressively) You did overhear some- 
thing? 

Pamela. Yes. 

Col. What? 

Pamela. Carousing and singing. 

(D'Arcy and Gregory nearly collapse. Going up 
R.) 

Col. I hear there is a rumor of a spy having 
been traced to this house — (Pamela turns) on the 
morning of that same day. 

Pamela. I can swear that no spy entered our 
house that day. 

D'Arcy. (Coming down between Pamela and 
Colonel) I was present, sir, when the searching 
party arrived, and I would also be willing to swear 
that no spy was in the house. 

Col. You overheard nothing? 

Pamela. Nothing. 

Col. (Abruptly) Who issued the order for Miss 
Townsend's arrest? 

(Bus. about the order.) 

D'Arcy. (Taking the order from his sash. Com- 



74 D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

ing down R. of Colonel) I believe it is signed by 
you, Sir Edward. (Hands it to the Colonel) 

Col. (Embarrassed, looTcs at it) Ah, yes — yes — 
I remember. (He moves up hack and tears the order 
in pieces, flinging them in the fire-place or on floor, 
then comes down L. c.) Miss Townsend, there has 
evidently been some grievous mistake and I wish to 
offer you my very sincere apology for the incon- 
venience we have caused you. And I should feel my- 
self sadly remiss, Miss Townsend, if I did not take 
this opportunity of thanking you, not only for my- 
self, but in behalf of my whole regiment for the very 
generous care which you have bestowed upon one of 
us. The Guards will not forget your service to 
Major D'Arcy. 

Pamela. You are very good, sir. 

Col. (Turning to the group of Officers) Gentle- 
men! (They begin to move toward door at l. 2 E.) 
Again I thank you, Miss Townsend. Good morning. 
(She curtseys very low, crosses K. and sits on sofa R.) 
Good-bye, Jack. 

D'Arcy. Good morning. Colonel. Good morning 
to you boys, good morning. 

(Colonel Jennison and Officers exeunt at l. 2 e. 
Gregory laughs, but D'Arcy bows him out too, 
and Pamela and he are left alone. Heaving a 
sigh of relief.) 

Pamela. (Seated R. on sofa) I can never forget 
the way in which you shielded me from all con- 
sequences. 

D'Arcy. (Returning to c.) Think nothing of 
that. I knew you'd never do such a thing again — 
and — and I needed a nurse so badly. As for thank- 
ing you for all you've done for me these past weeks, 
I have no word for it. 

Pamela. (Rises) Don't, I beg of you, Major 
D'Arcy ; don't thank me. Forgive me if you can in 



D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 75 

your heart, but thanks for what little reparation I 
have been able to make, stings like a blow. 

D'Arcy. Forgive you, Miss Townsend ! It was 
the fortunes of war; I abide by them. And I shall 
always hold as my sweetest memory, the recollection 
of my lovely opponent. 

Pamela, (r. c.) You are too generous. 

D'Arcy. (l. c.) Generosity is a cheap quality 
in one who^s beaten. 

Pamela. (Hastily) I did not mean that Major 
D'ArcY; believe me. And if I could do anything, 
oh, anything; to atone for the cowardly advantage 
I took of you that night 

D'Arcy. (Interrupting gently) Pray don't dis- 
tress yourself. Miss Townsend; all is fair in — war. 

Pamela. You are a mag-nanimous foe. Major 
D'Arcy. 

D'Arcy. My reward is your saying it. It will be 
some comfort when I am gone to know that one red- 
coat lies gently in your thought. 

Pamela. (Faltering) It is so — You are going 
back — soon ? 

D'Arcy. Yes, I sail next week. 

(There is a pause. Pamela fumbles in her skirt and 
brings out the miniature.) 

Pamela. (Hands it to him) Sambo found this 
on the floor here; I am sure you'll want to take it 
with you. 

D'Arcy. (Eagerly) Oh, Miss Townsend, a thou- 
sand thanks. I thought it gone; Greg and I have 
searched high and low for it. 

(WARN CURTAIN.) 

Pamela. (Coldly) I am very glad to restore so 
-precious a thing to you. You are returning to — to 
her? 

D'Arcy. Yes, to her ; the dearest, gentlest mother 



\ 



76 D'ARCY OF THE GUARDS. 

in the world. This was painted when she was a 
girl. 

Pamela. (Almost earned off her feet with joy 
and surprise, which she struggles to suppress) Your 
mother ! 

D'Arcy. Yes. 

Pamela. I thought 

D'Arcy. (Loohing at her in a startled way, 
getting a first glimpse of the truth) You thought? 

Pamela. (Lamely) It was your cousin — or 

D'Arcy. (Moving closer to her, a new looh in his 
eyes) Or who? Tell me, Pam — Miss Townsend, 
would you have cared if it had been neither mother 
nor cousin? (Pamela is overcome and can only looh 
down. D'Arcy wavering not daring to helieve the 
truth, comes close to her and speaks pleadingly, 
urgently) Tell me, tell me! 

Pamela. (In a low voice) I would have cared 
more — than I dare to show. 

D'Arcy. (Putting his face nea/r hers) It can't 
be true. 

Pamela. It is true. 

D'Arcy. (Drawing closer) Then it's the most 
beautiful truth in the world. (Drawing from her) 
But it's not pity ? You're not taking me out of pity ? 

Pamela. Pity ? 

D'Arcy. You see I'm only a piece of a man. Fm 
useless. 

Pamela. Never say it again, Major, I left you 
one arm. 

(D'Arcy loolcs at her. She lowers her head smiling 
at same time, he looks at his left arm which is 
farther from Pamela, quietly strolls around 
table placing himself to the right of Pamela, 
then putting his left arm about her says, "I 
cP-y thank you for the hurt/') 

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